Water demand to rise with robust industries

CEBU, Philippines — Water demand is projected to surge along with the robust growth in real estate, tourism and other industries in Cebu, a bulk water supplier said.

Mactan Rock Industries Inc. (MRII) chairman Antonio Tompar said because of the anticipated increase in the demand, the local government units (LGUs) should take environmental programs seriously and implement policies that would help preserve the environment as it is vital to the quantity and quality of water supply.

Tompar said LGUs have crucial roles in addressing the issues confronting river ecosystems as this will affect the sourcing of water supply. He reminded LGU executives to take care of the rivers especially in their respective localities, “so we can continue to enjoy not only abundant but safe and clean water.”

Nevertheless, Tompar noted that some LGU officials have already put their hands on the ground to implement programs and policies for environment protection.

The current water demand of Metro Cebu’s over one million population is now at 400,000 cubic meters (cu.m) per day.

According to Tompar, while the rise of water consumption is good for water supply business, it has to be complemented with sound policies that will also protect the water sources like rivers.

For his company alone, it has already utilized 25 rivers in the country to supply water to both commercial companies and water districts.

However, a few of these rivers had to be abandoned because they are too polluted, Tompar concluded.