ILIGAN City ― A barangay chair expressed opposition to the ongoing pipe-laying project of JE Hydro and Bio-Energy Corp., citing concerns over water supply and rising costs.
Lucia Capangpangan, chair of Barangay San Roque, said on a local radio program on Friday that she and her constituents do not see the need for the project, as they already have an ample water supply.
Capangpangan added that allowing the company to operate in their area could eventually force residents to use its services, which she claims are more expensive than the current rates provided by Iligan City Waterworks System.
A caller from the adjacent Barangay Santa Filomena countered Capangpangan’s statement, saying residents in his area need the service. He also accused Barangay San Roque of politicizing the issue.
Joy Tito, an executive from JE Hydro, said the company had complied with all legal and regulatory requirements, including permits, service presentations, and public hearings.
She said they also sent formal notices to the affected barangays to inform them about the project.
The water source for the company is the Mandulog River. The pipe-laying will pass through the barangays of San Roque, Santa Filomena, Acmac, and Dalipuga.
According to the company, the Department of Public Works and Highways has approved the project, and the water supply is certified safe for drinking.
Despite opposition from San Roque officials, the project is moving forward.
