Kaliwa Dam Project exposes Filipinos to undue Risk

We at CitizenWatch are raising serious concern over the apparent corner-cutting and missing permits of the proponents of the Kaliwa Dam project which could cause delays and other issues that could put not only the future of Metro Manila’s water supply at risk but will also affect our economy, environment, and the welfare of indigenous peoples.

As the peak of the dry season approaches, the majority of Filipinos are concerned about the possible water shortage issue that it may bring. Government officials assure us that they are taking the necessary steps to secure Metro Manila’s water supply through the administration’s much-acclaimed critical infrastructure project, the Kaliwa Dam. The dam is viewed by the government as a long-term solution to Metro Manila’s water shortage issues.

However, concerns have been raised that this China-backed project does not meet the transparency and accountability standards required by Philippine law.

This vital infrastructure project, which is funded through a loan deal between the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) and the Export-Import Bank of China, has been flagged by the Commission on Audit (COA) for its failure to obtain necessary certifications from the National Commission of Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). The project proponents have also been accused of bypassing the necessary consultations with the indigenous people communities who are now at risk of being displaced.

Security experts have also raised concerns regarding China’s debt-trap diplomacy and the risks linked with the project’s contractor, China Energy Engineering Corp. (CEEC). Several provisions including the confidentiality clause, waiver of immunity and the arbitration terms in the loan agreement with China have been questioned before the Supreme Court as lopsided in favor of China. These provisions have intensified the concerns about the possibility of falling into China’s debt-trap, similar to the experience of Sri Lanka and other countries where they were forced to give up some of their national assets.

The issues surrounding the Kaliwa Dam project require the serious attention, not only of government auditors and regulators, but of the Filipino Public as well.

CitizenWatch calls for more transparency and accountability with regard to the Kaliwa Dam project. It not only puts our water security at stake, it also endangers our environment, our indigenous communities, and exposes Filipinos to undue economic and legal risks.