Various projects lined up for CV development plan

CEBU, Philippines — Various projects are up for inclusion in the Central Visayas Regional Development Investment Program (RDIP) 2017-2022.

RDIP identifies projects that are in line with the objectives for the Regional Development Plan (RDP) and serves as the basis of the Regional Development Council in endorsing projects for funding.

The projects recommended for inclusion in the RDIP include the improvement of Clarin Port in Bohol; development of ecotourism circuit for Caluwasan Spring leading to Binaliw Falls in Bohol; development of ecotourism site for Tontunan Heights in Bohol (ecotourism development project); and the proposed conduct of feasibility study (FS) on waste water treatment plant for Panglao Island; and the construction of two-storey laboratory and classroom building and a multi-purpose covered court at Bohol Island State University.

These projects are among the agenda in the RDC third quarter full council meeting on Tuesday in Coco Grove Beach Resort in San Juan, Siquijor.

The proposed improvement of Clarin Port aims to particularly implement a transport network that serves the needs of the people and promotes greater access to markets, production areas, and vital industries.

It also seeks to enhance intra- and inter-island connectivity.

The proposed ecotourism development projects of the local governments of Clarin and San Miguel support the strategy of the RDP to prepare the region’s economy for inclusive growth through tourism.

The preparation of an FS on waste water treatment plant for Panglao Island is consistent with the RDP strategy of promoting environmental quality through the enforcement of environmental laws such as the Clean Water Act.

The implementation of the two proposed projects of BISU is aligned with the RDP  strategy of increasing investments in social infrastructure, particularly in education and health facilities, giving priority to under-served and unserved areas.

In particular, the waste water plant in Panglao is being recommended to be funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) under is technical cooperation facility.

The Bohol provincial government submitted to the RDC a project profile on the proposed conduct of an FS on the project and the corresponding endorsement from the Provincial Development Council.

The conduct of an FS on waste water plant for Panglao Island aims to arrest the contamination of groundwater and surrounding sea water in the island.

Meanwhile, the ecotourism circuit project for Caluwasan Spring leading to Binaliw Falls in Clarin, Bohol and San Miguel ecotourism development project are to be endorsed to DPWH, TIEZA and DOT for funding.

On the other hand, the capability building component of the development of ecotourism site for Tontunan Heights will also be endorsed to DOT for funding. (FREEMAN)