Cebu to get P1B Japan assistance

Cebu will be a recipient of a P1-billion grant from Japan for the construction of septage treatment plants (STP) and strengthening of its septage management program, which is seen to help protect groundwater supply and improve overall sanitation.

The assistance is made possible through the Metro Cebu Development and Coordinating Board (MCDCB) linking up with the city of Yokohama, Japan and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) with the Metropolitan Cebu Water District, Cebu Province, National Economic and Development Authority, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and concerned local government units.

Recently, JICA sent a technical team to Cebu to assess the potential areas as locations, meet with local chief executives and regional government offices, and determine other necessary requirements for the project.

The team shared the timeline for the project’s preparatory survey, with the STP construction scheduled to start in 2018.

Establishment of the STPs in Metro Cebu was identified as a priority, short-term but flagship project of the Roadmap Study for Sustainable Urban Development in Metro Cebu under the SubRoadmap for Wastewater Management, commissioned by MCDCB and conducted by JICA.

The project’s success will be determined by the willingness and commitment of various LGUs and government agencies’ willingness to work together.

Batuto / RHM