By Jay B. Laurino VM Walter “Wally” Dapla (Wally Dapla) PAGBILAO, Quezon — A proposed 184-megawatt wind energy project with 23 turbines...
 |
| VM Walter “Wally” Dapla (Wally Dapla) |
PAGBILAO, Quezon — A proposed 184-megawatt wind energy project with 23 turbines was presented to the Sangguniang Bayan of Pagbilao during a recent regular session. Expected to create hundreds of jobs and bring new economic activity, the proposal was introduced as a courtesy call and not as a request for approval.
The proposal forms part of Alternergy Holdings Corporation’s plan to expand its wind power projects in Quezon Province and grow its renewable energy capacity beyond 500 megawatts. Public discussions, including online posts, show mixed views, with some residents supporting new investment while others express concern about land use and the environment.
The planned Taya-bas and Pagbilao South Wind Energy Project was presented to local officials as an initial briefing on its scope, scale, and current status. The presentation was intended to open early dialogue ahead of any formal applications, without seeking endorsement or approval at this stage.
The proposed wind farm will be located in selected barangays in Pagbilao and Tayabas, based on preliminary layouts informed by wind resource mapping and site assessments. These locations are still being reviewed to identify areas with strong wind while avoiding communities and sensitive areas as much as possible.
Pre-development work, including wind measurement and technical studies, is already ongoing to validate wind conditions in the area. The data gathered will be used to confirm project feasibility and guide detailed engineering and environmental planning.
Project proponents outlined a proposed timeline that places the start of construction in 2028, subject to the completion of studies and required permits. The construction phase is expected to follow once regulatory conditions and local clearances are secured.
Vice Mayor Walter Dapla said the local government remains open to investments that can stimulate growth and open livelihood opportunities for residents. He stressed that development should move forward responsibly and with respect for people and the environment.
“Ang Pagbilao, syempre we encourage, in fact, ine-open nga ho natin ang bayan ng Pagbilao to investors, to future development, kasi this is really the way to go, no. Because alam naman natin, any investments, any development would mean, kumbaga, an increase in the taxes that we are collecting.” Dapla said.
Dapla noted that large-scale developments often involve trade-offs that require careful oversight, particularly when infrastructure and land use are involved. He noted that roads, buildings, and energy facilities can affect land, livelihoods, and natural resources if not carefully managed.
“Kami, we are always supportive of anything that is good for the people and for the municipality. But since itong ganitong klase ng mga projects would mean meron ding, syempre, ano yan eh, any development, kagaya ng paggawa ng kalsada, paggawa ng mga bahay, ng buildings, etc., meron talagang nasasakripisyo.” said Dapla.
According to Dapla, community voices must remain central in evaluating large-scale projects to ensure that development decisions reflect public sentiment and local needs. He added that public participation should continue throughout the process and not be treated as a one-time activity.
“If there’s a need to do public consultation, not just once, twice, or thrice, let’s do it; if there’s a need for public hearing, let’s do it, and mahalaga na patuloy na pakinggan ang sentimyento ng komunidad bago isulong ang anumang proyekto.” Dapla added.
Environmental protections were also discussed, including environmental studies, public consultations, and steps to reduce possible harm to soil, wildlife, and water sources. These measures aim to minimize impacts during studies and address environmental concerns, including proximity to protected areas.
The proposed wind farm site is located more than 10 kilometers away from Mount Banahaw, placing it outside the protected area. Project proponents are expected to return in the coming months to provide updates before seeking any formal approval.
No comments