ILOILO CITY—Environmental and religious groups will hold a big protest rally on Wednesday against the proposed construction of a coal-fired power plant in the city.

Organizers of the protest said the rally will be held in commemoration of the fourth anniversary of the rejection of a proposed coal plant project in Banate town in Iloilo. The project was shelved because of widespread protests from the community and environmental groups.

Protesters coming from various organizations, parishes and schools will assemble at the Sta. Teresita Church at 1:30 p.m. before marching to the grounds of the provincial capitol where a prayer rally and program will be held.

Jaro Archbishop Angel Lagdameo said the prayer rally will also be a re-affirmation of the stand of Western Visayas bishops rejecting the putting up of coal plants anywhere in the region.

The Global Business Power Corp. (GBPC) and Panay Power Corp. (PPC) is proposing to set-up a 164-megawatt coal plant in Barangay Ingore in La Paz District.

The project is supported by city officials and at least 10 business organizations representing 350 companies. It is also supported by officials of Ingore and neighboring barangays in La Paz including Ticud, Hinactacan, Banuyao, Lopez Jaena Sur, Gustilo and Bitoon.

The task force formed by Mayor Jerry Trenas has recently endorsed the project.

Supporters of the coal plant said the project will ensure a stable power supply and bring in more investors to Panay Island which will create jobs for Ilonggos.

But environmental groups, scientists and physicians have warned of health and environmental risks because of toxic substances emitted by coal plants despite the use of the most advanced technology to filter these substances.*NPB  

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