Waterworks ordered closed

CEBU, Philippines - Daanbantayan Mayor Maria Luisa Loot has ordered the closure of the Tapilon Rural Waterworks and Sanitation, Inc. (TARWASA) in Barangay Tapilon.

The order dated April 19, 2011 was served last Wednesday, April 20, 2011, to Claro Benatiro, the chairman of the board of directors, but only his office staff received it.

Tapilon Barangay Captain Arturo Conejos said it was only yesterday morning the water system was padlocked upon the order of Loot.

Loot said it failed to secure the necessary authority to operate and had no permit from the municipality, despite issued notices to comply dated March 4, 2011.

Benatiro allegedly deliberately refused to receive and acknowledge the notice.

Loot also said that the water system lacks the certificate of franchise from the Local Water Utilities Administration, the government agency tasked to supervise the operation of rural waterworks and sanitation associations.

Loot further said it lacked the required water permit and certificate of public convenience from the National Water Resources Board as mandated by the Executive Order No. 577, as amended.

The absence and lack of the foregoing mandatory requirements, as required by law, are clear and unmistakable, said Loot.

“Your water operation, therefore, in the area of Barangay Tapilon, Daanbantayan, Cebu Province, is illegal and unlawful,” she said in her order.

Loot required and directed Benatiro to cease and desist from continuing any and all operations of the water system.

“Your continued defiance on this closure order will be dealt with accordingly,” Loot said.

Conejos said he will call for a general assembly tomorrow with the barangay residents to discuss the problem and he is inviting Loot and other town officials.

Conejos said that they will request Loot that the barangay take over the operations in the meantime the case is still pending in court. (FREEMAN)