Jica Grants P440-million to Philippine Government for Hydro Projects

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) is extending a total of P439.64 million worth of grants to the Philippine government for the setup of mini-hydropower plants in the provinces of Ifugao and Isabela.

“Harnessing hydropower potentials in the countryside will help the government in its strategy of intensifying the development and use of renewable and environment-friendly alternative-energy resources,” National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) Deputy Director General Rolando G. Tungpalan said.

The Neda said the 810-kilowatt (kW) mini-hydropower plant in Ifugao will get ¥893 million or P377.5 million. The plant will be constructed in Barangay Haliap in Asipulo. Under the grant agreement signed by the Philippines and Japan, the mini-hydropower project in Ifugao will also include provision of hydropower equipment, repair of existing irrigation facilities and training for operators and plant supervisors.

The Department of Energy (DOE) and the provincial government of Ifugao will implement this project from May 2013 to February 2015.

“This project will provide a reliable source of fund for the preservation and rehabilitation of Ifugao’s rice terraces. Also, the province is now developing its native rice varieties raised in its terraces for both the domestic and export markets,” Tungpalan said.

Jica is also assisting the government in constructing a 45-kW mini-hydropower plant, including a sub-station, transmission facilities, a diversion canal and power house in Isabela. The Japanese government provided a grant of ¥147 million, or P62.14 million, for the project. The DOE and the National Irrigation Administration will implement the project from May 2013 to November 2014.

“Isabela is also a significant source of agricultural products, especially palay and corn, for the country,” Tungpalan said.

He added that the need for sustainable sources of electric power in two provinces in Northern Luzon is important considering these are among the resource-rich but income-poor areas in country.