The bidding process for the cloud seeding operation in Zamboanga is underway as the total amount of P3.5 million as contributed by the Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD) and Prime Water Corporation and the local government has been officially received by the City Treasurer’s Office.

The ZCWD infused P2M, Prime Water contributed P1M while the City Government is sharing P500K.

A ceremonial turnover of the amount by ZCWD General Manager Leonardo Vasquez to Mayor Beng Climaco was done during the press briefing in City Hall Monday. Prime Water turned over its share to the city last March 25.

City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Dr. Elmeir Apolinario said the bidding process is expected to take place within 7 days following the provisions of Republic Act 9184 otherwise known as the Procurement Law.

The P3.5M will be used for the mobilization of the aircraft and other materials required such as salt including the service of the pilots.

At least 8 service providers are expected to participate in the bidding, according to Apolinario.

“Hopefully we can start cloud seeding next week, right after the 7-day requirement for the bidding,” Apolinario added.

Cloud seeding is one of measures implemented to mitigate the effects of the dry spell. Based on Science, cloud seeding is a method of making a cloud give up its moisture as rain, especially by releasing particles of dry ice or silver iodide into cold clouds. (Sheila Covarrubias)