CAGAYAN de Oro City Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy has confidently announced that there will be no disruptions in the water services for the city’s residents, despite a critical April 12 deadline previously set by the city’s water supplier.
This update comes as a positive development following today’s negotiations over the COWD-COBI issue.
The city’s water supplier, Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water Inc. (COBI), has agreed to extend the deadline for disconnection by 30 days, pushing it to May 13, 2024.
This agreement was reached after COWD and COBI held discussions to resolve their ongoing dispute.
The city has taken proactive steps to secure its water supply and reduce dependency on COBI.
Mayor Uy stepped in when COWD and COBI were unable to resolve their conflict and has taken action to protect the city’s water utility services.
The City Council has also been active in ensuring water supply stability.
They have approved Resolution No.14895-2024, signaling support for Rio Verde Water Consortium, Inc., a new company ready to supply water throughout the city, particularly to areas currently underserved.
This resolution indicates the city’s willingness to work with Rio Verde to provide a Level III water supply, marking an important move to solve the water crisis worsened by the legal dispute between COWD and COBI.
The city council has proposed that Rio Verde charge P15.00 per cubic meter for water for the first three years, with a potential increase to P16.00 per cubic meter in the subsequent years.
However, these rates are not final and must be approved by the National Water Resources Board (NWRB).
The council’s decision showcases a strategic approach: Rio Verde has received local government approval as a Level III service provider, and if COBI stops supplying water to COWD, the city can buy water from Rio Verde as an emergency measure.
A Task Force on Water Supply and Distribution has suggested ending the COWD-COBI contract, which they believe is too favorable to COBI.
This might lead to a legal dispute, but if COBI stops its service, COWD is prepared to work with Rio Verde or any other qualified supplier urgently.
The council voted in strong favor of maintaining a steady water supply, with only one objection and two abstentions, reflecting the city’s dedication to this issue.
COBI had given COWD until April 12 to settle its large debt. This came after multiple warnings that the city’s water supply could be cut off.
Following a radio interview with Councilor Edgar Cabanlas, co-chair of the Task Force, where he suggested that the supply contract with COBI might be canceled, Mayor Uy now has the final say on this matter.
Cabanlas mentioned that a report showing the contract as disadvantageous would be sent to the Commission on Audit (COA), which could lead to action against those who made the unfair contract.
The COWD board will also review the report, as they are mainly involved.
This could lead to the termination of the current contract with COBI, which allows for a periodic rate increase.
Mayor Uy’s promise comes at a pivotal time, ensuring that, despite financial issues, the residents’ water supply will remain steady.
His recent meetings have focused on finding different ways to keep water flowing in the city.
Through the mayor’s commitment and the council’s forward-thinking actions, Cagayan de Oro aims to provide safe and dependable water to its citizens, proving the government’s priority is the well-being of its people.
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