NEDA, KOICA sign deal for $2.5m integrated water resources project

By Julito G. Rada

THE National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) signed on Friday a pact to implement the Integrated Water Resources Management and Sustainable Development project worth $2.5 million or roughly P140 million.

“This momentous occasion holds great promise for the improvement of vital services, such as water supply, sanitation, irrigation, and flood control under the framework of Integrated Water Resources Management or the IWRM,” NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said.

“By ensuring equitable, efficient, and sustainable management and allocation of our water resources, we can embark on a path of progress,” Balisacan said. The capacity development project will continue until 2024. It aims to increase the management and technical skills of institutions involved in the water resources sector.

The initiative supports the strategies under the Philippine Development Plan 2023-2028, which indicates that integrated water and resource management is a way to intensify the rehabilitation, protection, and management of the country’s ecosystems.

During the signing ceremony, the NEDA chief highlighted that the project is imperative for addressing the issues in the water sector caused by weak governance and fragmented systems.

“We must address these shortcomings by embracing effective water governance through integrated water resources management. By harmonizing the planning and management of land, water, and coastal resources, we can overcome these obstacles and create a brighter future for all,” Balisacan said.

On the drug tests, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos earlier challenged candidates to undergo said test.

Comelec spokesperson John Rex Laudiangco said that “nothing can stop our candidates if they themselves voluntarily present and give their negative drug testing certificate to Comelec.”

“I think this will also help them, as long as it is voluntary,” Laudiangco, quoted by a GMA News report said.

According to the official, the Supreme Court previously ruled that the poll body cannot add requirements other than those stated in the Constitution.

Laudinagco added that the Comelec is “completely ready for the

Speaking on the partnership with malls, Laudiangco said at least 20 malls were expected to participate as voting sites in the October polls, ABSCBN News reported. The official did not mention the location and name of the establishments.

“We will set up voting centers there and nearby barangays will benefit and they will be able to vote there. We hope to add more malls with enough space int he next months,” the official, quoted by ABS-CBN News report, said. Laudiangco said the move would lessen the disruption of classes in schools used as voting sites. The official further said that a month before the elections, the poll body will train teachers and the members of the election board.