PGMA cites LGU efforts in creating investor-friendly environment
Last Updated on Tuesday, 30 November 1999 00:00 Written by Filipinas Press Sunday, 05 April 2009 00:00
In a brief remark during her visit to and inspection of the P5.1-billion Sibulan Hydropower Project of Hedcor in Sta.Cruz, Davao del Sur, the President said the 4.2-megawatt hydropower facility is a private sector investment made partly in response to such local government initiatives.
The Chief Executive said the 42.5 MW Sibulan Hydropower Project of Hedcor, an Aboitiz Ventures Inc. subsidiary, will surely help create more jobs and spur development in Mindanao while ensuring the availability of clean and environment-friendly power.
"It is important that local government units create an investor-friendly environment to attract investments such as this," referring to the Sibulan Hydropower Project, the President stressed.
President Arroyo has repeatedly and consistently stressed the need to attract investments as well as partner with the private sector in major development undertakings.
She thanked Davao del Sur Governor Douglas Cagas, Sibulan Mayor Joel Lopez and Presidential Legal Adviser Jesus Dureza for their efforts in making possible the construction of the Aboitiz hydropower plant that has so far benefited- some 80,000 residents in the area, including some 20,000 indigenous people -- the Bagobo-Tagabawa tribe.
Since the project started a few years back, Hedcor had already built and repaired several farm-to-market roads and potable water systems, sponsored medical missions and provided educational assistance to the host communities here.
The company has likewise employed some 1,000 locals, including members of indigenous tribes. Its presence in the area has also generated various livelihood opportunities for the locals.
Arnel Aninipot, a native farmer and father of four, is now employed by Hedcor as community relations officer. Jeorge Concepcion, who shares similar circumstances with Aninipot, said the construction of concrete roads by Hedcor has made him earn more because transporting his farm produce to the market is now much cheaper, easier and convenient.
Leaders of indigenous peoples (IPs) here said they look forward to more direct benefits from the Sibulan Hydropower Project when its starts operation because one percent of its royalty tax to the government will go to livelihood projects for IPs.
President Arroyo noted that with more investments pouring in, the lives of people in countryside communities will vastly improve.
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