Privatization of energy. Arroyo said that in order to address the expected electric power gap of around 100 MW in the Visayas in 2010, the government will speed up “as soon as possible” the privatization of the geothermal power plants all over Visayas in 2008 so the private sector can take over and expand the capacity before 2009, the expected date of entry of an electric Korean company which will start a large venture in the energy sector.

Aside from these, Arroyo said, the opening of a big charcoal plant in Masbate in 2008 will not only increase access to electricity in the said province but is also “symbiotic” to the province’s “rich beaches and agricultural resources.”

Good news for Negrense planters business, Arroyo said, is the planned construction beginning 2009 of the ethanol corridor from San Carlos City in the north, to the Tamlang Valley in the south. The on going construction of the San Carlos Bioethanol plant in San Carlos City is expected to start its commercial operations in October 2008. “Geothermal, ethanol and similar power sources are much better for the environment than the oil and coal fuel,” she said.

Environmental protection. To support all these, there is a need for the integration of a comprehensive environmental protection and rehabilitation program, Arroyo said.

She said the government has been implementing since 2001 its program of protection of national parks, and vows to strengthen the campaign especially in Palawan, Bicol, Northern Negros, NorthWest Panay, Antique, Panglao in Bohol, and Samar island.

To ensure water quality in 24 Central Philippine beaches including Boracay, Panglao and El Nido, Arroyo said the government has embarked on a thorough monitoring program with LGUs (local government units) taking the lead role.

Arroyo also announced that Southern Leyte has recovered by implementing the $3-million Japanese project for ecosystem rehabilitation and protection. She also declared that Guimaras has made a “dramatic comeback” from the oil spill that struck it last year, and thanked Congress for the allocation of P900 million ($19.67 million) to address the calamity and the on-going mangrove reforestation and livelihood assistance to local folks.

Other projects she mentioned were the allocation of P10 billion ($218.6 million) for the Bicol region’s calamity assistance and rehabilitation efforts, which she said is the single biggest release of calamity fund; and $15 million for the development of the Bicol river basin project which will include irrigation, flood control and water services.

Arroyo challenged the governors and other local officials to make Central Philippines into a haven for business and tourists. She also called on them to push on for “greater solidarity and focus.”

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