CAGAYAN de Oro Water District assured consumers yesterday that they are doing all they can to prevent the Cagayan de Oro Bulk Water, Inc. (Cobi) from halting its supply of bulk water.
In what could be a significant setback for the 1st District of Cagayan de Oro, Cobi is contemplating discontinuing its water supply to the COWD until the latter’s payables are fully paid.
As of December 13, 2023, the COWD owes Cobi some P437,057,627.52.
During a press conference held yesterday, January 16, in the boardroom of COWD, General Manager Engr. Antonio Young assured consumers that every effort would be made to negotiate with Cobi and prevent the disruption of their water supply.
When questioned about the contingency plan if Cobi insists on discontinuing the supply due to an outstanding account exceeding P400 million, Young said that emergency water purchases would be considered.
However, he emphasized that this would be a last resort, expressing confidence that the payment dispute could be resolved through discussions and negotiations.
Despite a meeting on January 12 between both parties, a resolution has not been reached, with official responses still pending.
“Mag letter pa sila sa amo sa ilang official reply, so wala pay agreement pa nga na-arrive during that meeting,” Young told Gold Star Daily.
To safeguard against disconnection, COWD has sought assistance from the local government, urging Cobi not to implement any immediate disconnections.
Young highlighted that the joint water production of Cobi, the Water District, and South Balibago amounts to 200,000 cubic meters per day, with 40% provided by Cobi. The 1st District is expected to be most affected if the supply is halted.
Young identified specific areas likely to face water shortages, including Upper Carmen, Bayabas, Bonbon, Kauswagan Bulua, and Patag. In the worst-case scenario, Young assured residents that water rationing and public faucet installations would be implemented, similar to measures taken during past calamities.
Mayor Rolando Uy expressed concern for the residents and pledged to meet with the Water District's Board of Directors to address the matter.
Uy assured support in requesting Cobi not to discontinue its supply, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the well-being of the people.
Acknowledging the financial challenges faced by COWD, Mayor Uy advised them to proceed with payments gradually as a sign of goodwill.
Regarding potential water rate increases, he urged the Water District to enhance services before considering any adjustments, emphasizing the public’s dissatisfaction and the rise in illegal connections.
Open to privatization as a last resort, Mayor Uy deferred the decision to the COWD board, emphasizing the need for careful consideration.
