NEGROS Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. assured the residents of Hinoba-an who will be affected by the proposed construction of a Japanese shipbuilding facility that they will receive compensation.
He said some residents “will be relocated and will be compensated.”
Marañon was reacting to reports that farmers and fisherfolk belonging to Kilusang Magbubukid Ng Pilipinas have expressed opposition on the project, and they will launch a broad people’s campaign against the proposed shipyard.
Marañon said the no livelihood will be lost since the project’s target site is not a fishing ground.
He said that displaced residents will be prioritized for the jobs the facility could generate as long as they are qualified.
Last week, Marañon and the executives of Tsuneishi Heavy Industries Inc. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) in Japan for the construction of the shipbuilding facility in Barangay Bacuyangan.
The signing was witnessed by President Rodrigo Duterte.
Marañon said the $300-million facility is expected to start its construction next year.
He said the firm is currently processing the Environmental Compliance Certificate and other government requirements for the project.
Earlier, Hinobaan Mayor Ernesto Estrao said that majority of the town residents are supporting the establishment of the project, which is expected to address unemployment problem.
A signature campaign was also launched last week to know the stand of the residents.