The proposed Kaliwa Dam project and the alternative proposal of a Japanese firm will be placed under government study, Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said Tuesday.
Panelo, also chief presidential legal counsel, said his office would undertake the study on the water project proposals and get inputs from experts after the Japanese company claimed it could be a better alternative to the China-funded dam project.
“If it is true the Chinese proposal is onerous, I think we should look into it,” Panelo said during a Palace press briefing. “That should be thoroughly studied,” he added.
He clarified though the China-funded Kaliwa Dam project will probably continue despite the pending inquiry to be conducted by his office. “Tuloy siguro ‘yun until siguro kapag may na-discover ako na anomalous,” he said.
Panelo said he would also ask the Japanese company to give him a copy of the proposed Kaliwa Intake Weir project with the government. “My office will look into it and then I will make a recommendation to the President,” he said.
Osaka-based Global Utility Development Corporation earlier revived its offer to build the Kaliwa Intake Weir project if the proposal is approved by the government. the proposal includes the construction of a seven-meter high and 16-kilometer weir that can provide 550 million liters per day of water.
The government earlier signed a loan agreement with China on the construction of the Kaliwa Dam in Quezon, another potential source of water for Metro Manila.
The local community has reportedly opposed the construction of the administration amid concerns it would result to floods and displace the residents. (Genalyn Kabiling)
