INTERIM General Manager Fermin Jarales has outlined a nine-point action plan to address critical challenges and enhance services at the Cagayan de Oro City Water District (COWD).

The announcement follows the Local Water Utilities Administration’s (LWUA) decision to extend its intervention in the water district by three months.

LWUA Chairman Ronnie Ong emphasized the importance of continued oversight in a letter announcing the extension.

“The interim leadership will oversee operations and implement key improvements over the next few months,” Ong wrote.

Jarales’ comprehensive plan aims to improve financial stability, optimize resources, and ensure sustainable water management.

WASTAGE. A concerned citizen emailed Gold Star Daily this photo of a Development Bank of the Philippines loan to Cagayan de Oro Water District equipment granted and delivered way back in 2017 are left to rot and decay in a Kauswagan warehouse. Contributed file photo

Highlights of the Nine-Point Action Plan:

  1. 1. Past-Due Collections: Intensified efforts to recover unpaid accounts to stabilize cash flow and fund essential upgrades.
  2. 2. Material Usability: Assessment of P153 million worth of materials to ensure efficient utilization for service delivery.
  3. 3. Non-Revenue Water Program: Finalization of a P225 million program funded by the Development Bank of the Philippines to address water losses from leaks and inefficiencies.
  4. 4. Water Rate Review: Preparation of documents to evaluate and adjust water rates to ensure fairness and cost recovery.
  5. 5. Cost-Cutting Initiatives: Implementation of measures to optimize operations and reduce unnecessary expenses.
  6. 6. Water Audits: Conducting a Water Audit and Water Balance Study to identify inefficiencies and guide improvements.
  7. 7. Financial Stability: Resolution of Cagayan de Oro Bulkwater, Inc (Cobi) issues and outstanding payables to strengthen fiscal health.
  8. 8. Capacity Building: Collaboration with LWUA to implement training programs that enhance operational competencies.
  9. 9. Ten-Year Business Plan: Development of a long-term strategy prioritizing Non-Revenue Water management and sustainable operations.

“These measures are critical to improving services and ensuring financial stability,” Jarales said.

The LWUA intervention and the detailed action plan come amid ongoing efforts to address the water district’s operational and financial challenges, with the aim of delivering more reliable services to Cagayan de Oro residents.