The Community Alliance on Water Security Action (CAWSA) has issued a heartfelt appeal to the Board of Directors and Management of the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) during this critical transition period. The aim is to foster unity and cooperation as the community faces a pressing water crisis.
The incumbent COWD Board has temporarily handed over its responsibilities to an Interim Board appointed by the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA).
This decision is seen as a crucial step towards finding lasting solutions to the city's water problems.
CAWSA's appeal emphasizes the importance of collaboration among all members of the COWD workforce.
Their active participation and unwavering support are deemed essential in developing and implementing strategies to revitalize the Water District.
The appeal specifically calls on the previous General Manager, Engr. Antonio Young, to share his expertise with the new interim General Manager, Fermin Jarales.
This cooperation is considered vital for a smooth transition and for achieving the ultimate goal: ensuring the general welfare of the people of Cagayan de Oro.
CAWSA is determined to build a resilient, efficient, and sustainable water system to serve the community's needs now and in the future.
They urge everyone to move forward with a united front, guided by a shared purpose and dedication to the city's well-being.
On May 9, 2024, CAWSA sent a letter to lawyer Jose Moises Salonga, the Administrator of LWUA, highlighting the urgent need for administrative, technical, and financial assistance for COWD.
In the letter, CAWSA requested LWUA to conduct a thorough investigation and feasibility study (FS) regarding COWD’s operations.
They expressed eagerness to collaborate with LWUA as partners in this endeavor.
CAWSA represents the affected consumers of Cagayan de Oro City and has inherited its mission from Task Force Too-Big, a civil society initiative formed in 2013.
Task Force Too-Big previously gathered significant support, including 30,000 signatures, advocating for a feasibility study on COWD.
The water crisis in Cagayan de Oro has escalated, prompting CAWSA to intervene.
They believe in the fundamental right of all citizens to access clean water, emphasizing their moral obligation to address the water insecurity affecting the community.
The challenges facing COWD are multifaceted.
Problematic contracts with private water suppliers have resulted in unstable and uncertain water supply arrangements.
Irregularities in contracts, such as those with Rio Verde Consortium and Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water, Inc. (COBI), have further exacerbated the situation.
High non-revenue water levels, currently at 50%, have led to increased costs for consumers and environmental pollution.
The high water price of P27.00 per cubic meter imposes a financial burden on consumers, particularly those facing economic hardships.
Pollution and inadequate waste management systems have led to contamination of water sources and environmental degradation.
CAWSA believes that LWUA’s involvement, including a comprehensive feasibility study and necessary funding, is crucial for transforming COWD into a reliable water service provider.
The envisioned transformation of COWD includes ensuring adequate water supply, reducing non-revenue water levels, implementing fair pricing structures, and establishing essential infrastructure like sewerage treatment plants.
To facilitate this process, CAWSA proposes forming a collaborative team with representatives from both CAWSA and LWUA.
This team would oversee the investigation and feasibility study, ensuring transparency and inclusivity throughout the process.
CAWSA has called for a thorough and democratic selection process for the team members, carried out by the CAWSA convenors within a specified timeframe.
They eagerly await LWUA’s prompt response to this urgent matter.
The appeal and the letter to LWUA underscore the community's determination to address the water crisis in Cagayan de Oro.
The collaborative efforts between CAWSA, COWD, and LWUA aim to ensure that every citizen has access to clean and reliable water supply, a fundamental human right.
For more details, CAWSA has encouraged the public to reach out to lawyer Proculo T. Sarmen, the presiding officer of the CAWSA convenors, emphasizing their preparedness for immediate action and cooperation in addressing the city's water concerns.
