By I. Inojales | 05:03 PM July 21, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY – Key stakeholders gathered today, Monday (July 21) at the Governor’s Office in the Bohol Provincial Capitol to discuss the proposed Bohol Bulk Water Supply and Sanitation Project (BBWSSP), a flagship initiative under the Accelerated Water and Sanitation Project in Selected Areas (AWSPSA).
The coordination meeting brought together representatives from the World Bank—Takeshi Murakami and Ma. Fiorella Delos Reyes Fabella—as well as Engr. Mike Alpasan of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Fe Crisilla Banluta of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Provincial Planning and Development Coordinator Atty. John Titus Vistal, along with other invited officials and provincial leaders.
In his opening remarks, Gov. Aris Aumentado emphasized the project’s significance in addressing Bohol’s long-standing water supply challenges.
“The provincial government sees the provision of adequate water supply as a key pillar of our development roadmap,” he said, noting that access to reliable water services is essential for sustaining communities, driving economic growth, and attracting investment.
If implemented, the BBWSSP is expected to enhance water infrastructure across the province, ensuring improved quality, efficiency, and resilience of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.
The meeting aimed to iron out critical implementation details, especially the proposed water tariff structure. Officials stressed the need to balance the project’s viability with affordability for local government units and end users.
“We must find a middle ground where the project remains sustainable without placing undue burden on the LGUs and the consuming public,” Aumentado said.
With collaborative efforts from national agencies, the World Bank, and local stakeholders, the provincial government expressed optimism for the project’s success and its long-term benefits for Boholanos.
