P 1 billion hydropower plant set to rise in Agusan del Norte

By Mike U. Crismundo (Manila Bulletin, March 16, 2009)

Butuan City – Three lake towns in Agusan del Norte in Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga region) are set for an economic boom as a P 1 billion hydro power plant is set to rise there.

The three towns around Laka Mainit are Jabonga, Santiago and Kitcharao.

A private investor is now currently closely coordinating with the provincial government for the final implementation of the said hydropower plant. Income and employment generation are foreseen once the plant is operational.

Governor Erlpe Amante has directed his technical development staff and engineering department head for proper and final evaluation of the said project.

According to flood experts, the setting up of a hydropower plant in Lake Mainit will also finally address the perennial flooding woes of the three lake towns.

Agriculture experts also observed that hydropower plant will also add income to farmers in terms of good water through irrigation project. “Our farmers can now regularly harvest their palay twice a year,” said an agricultural technician.