RESIDENTS of Cagayan de Oro need not fret over potential water shortages as Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water Inc (Cobi) prepares to halt its water supply to Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) after March 31.
Rio Verde Water Consortium, Inc. assured city councilors last Thursday of their commitment to step in and ensure continued water provision.
During the Adhoc Committee Meeting chaired by Councilor Edgar Cabanlas on March 7, discussions centered on clarifications and potential solutions to the impending water supply issue.
Emotions ran high as Cabanlas, expressing concern, confronted the legal council of Metro Pacific Water (Metropac), Atty. Roberto Rodrigo, who attended the meeting via online video call.
Rodrigo emphasized that if COWD fails to settle its nearly P500 million debt within the given 30-day deadline, Cobi management will cease bulk water supply.
Rodrigo underscored their substantial investment of over P1.4 billion in infrastructure enhancements aimed at improving service delivery to consumers.
However, he pointed out financial constraints arising from contractual obligations, urging COWD compliance to fulfill their end of the agreement.
Highlighting the urgency, Cabanlas urged Rodrigo to convey to Cobi management their readiness to have water supply disconnected if necessary.
“We will not beg, cut it off,” Cabanlas declared, expressing the anxiety prevalent among residents due to perceived threats from Cobi.
Engr. Joffrey Hapitan, President of Rio Verde Consortium Inc., also attended the meeting, offering reassurance that their company stands prepared to step in should Cobi discontinue supply. Hapitan affirmed their capacity to provide direct household water supply, boasting new pipelines ready to deliver potable water.
“We are ready to serve,” Hapitan affirmed, seeking council assurance through a resolution of no objection for Rio Verde to directly supply water to households in the area.
Among the mounting concerns, Rio Verde’s commitment provides a glimmer of hope for residents facing potential water supply disruptions, ensuring continued access to this essential resource.
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