Solution to serious water crisis explored

CEBU, Philippines — In a move to address Metro Cebu’s deepening water crisis, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival met with officials of the Water Resources Center Foundation Inc. (WRCFI) to explore long-term, sustainable solutions.

This developed as the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) celebrated a major milestone in water quality assurance with its newly ISO-certified laboratory.

The meeting highlighting the urgency of sustainable water management, governance reform, and infrastructure planning.

The WRCFI accordingly presented data that showed that Metro Cebu’s daily water demand has surged to 515,000 cubic meters, yet supply lags far behind at only 255,000 cubic meters.

The group identified three major concerns—insufficient water supply, excessive wastage, and deteriorating water quality.

It also noted the risks posed by unregistered private wells and excessive groundwater extraction, which threaten long-term water security.

In response, Archival announced plans to issue an executive order appointing a focal person to oversee all water-related programs in the city.

This role will encompass flood control, wastewater management, and the development of long-term water sources.

Archival stressed that a dedicated role is necessary to ensure these critical areas receive sustained attention and coordination.

The WRCFI further recommended the formation of a multi-stakeholder body to streamline water governance and enhance collaboration.

They also proposed expanding green spaces across the city to improve natural water absorption and groundwater recharge.

Mayor Archival expressed support for creating a technical working group to study the economics of water, including pricing and access from both consumer and supplier perspectives.

The WRC pledged its full support in helping the city plan and implement its water sustainability agenda.

Earlier, Mayor Archival earlier also graced led the opening of the 19th National Annual Convention of the Water Environment Association of the Philippines Inc. (WEAP) at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel and Casino.

Addressing engineers, policymakers, and advocates, he emphasized the importance of data-driven solutions and treating water as a vital, finite resource.

“Water is the lifeblood of our communities,” he said while adding that  “Progress doesn’t happen on its own—it’s made by people like you, engineers, policy makers and advocates working to ensure every drop of water counts.”

The convention showcased innovative solutions in water and wastewater management, with Mayor Archival visiting several exhibits, including that of Pro-Envirotek Inc., a provider of sewage treatment systems—one of his administration’s key focus areas.

 Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro also attended the event, voicing her support for initiatives aimed at protecting water resources and improving sanitation infrastructure across the province.

The two-day gathering brought together experts and government representatives to exchange knowledge and explore advancements in sustainable water management nationwide.

MCWD milestone

Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) celebrated a major milestone as its Water Quality Laboratory earned the prestigious PNS ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditation.

The certification, awarded by the Philippine Accreditation Bureau (PAB), according to MCWD affirms the laboratory’s “adherence to international standards for quality and accuracy.

During the awarding ceremony held at the MCWD facility in Talamban the other day, PAB accreditation officer Laarni Joya stressed the water district’s commitment to quality and technical competence and continuous improvement.

“Your efforts help ensure accurate and reliable testing, which is vital in protecting public health and the environment,” Joya said.

MCWD’s laboratory conducts daily water testing to monitor chemical and bacterial contaminants in all its water sources, various sampling points across the distribution system, and even in consumers’ service lines.

MCWD General Manager Edgar Donoso expressed gratitude to the ISO Certification Committee, led by Internal Audit Department Manager Elmer de Guzman for making it possible despite challenges.

“This achievement is another significant milestone in MCWD's commitment to excellence, quality, and customer satisfaction in our service,” Donoso said.

De Guzman recalled that the journey began in November 2023 and took over two years of rigorous compliance.

“Let us be inspired by what this accreditation truly represents: a shared promise to serve with excellence and integrity,” De Guzman said in closing. — (FREEMAN)