MCWD,NWRB sign agreement to protect groundwater source

CEBU, Philippines -  Two major agencies have joined hands to protect groundwater sources in Metro Cebu.

A memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed yesterday between Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) and National Water Resources Board (NWRB) to ensure that groundwater extraction is executed properly aiming for sustainability.

Representing MCWD was general manager Engr. Armando Paredes while NWRB executive director Atty. Elenito Bagalihog  led the other signing party.

Bagalihog said this latest development will protect groundwater sources in Metro Cebu.

“This is the best time for us to be able to manage the extraction and utilization of groundwater sourcing,” the NWRB chief stressed.

Metro Cebu and Metro Manila are implementing a moratorium on water permit application, he added.

The MOA will help government to formulate policies leading to solid effects creating sustainable water supply for all, Bagalihog continued.

Serving as operational guideline is a joint Study for the Improvement of Water Supply and Sanitation in Metropolitan Cebu conducted in August 2010 by MCWD and Japan International Cooperating Agency (JICA). Stated in the MOA are the responsibilities of both agencies.

Apart from providing the Groundwater Model Technology Transfer Program/Plan, MCWD is tasked to provide manpower in several functions including data gathering, monitoring, and report to NWRB any violations of water extractions based on permit.

NWRB, on the other hand, will nominate technical assistance and staff. Also, the agency is responsible for the formulation and coordination of policies, programs and standards relating to the Philippine Water Sector, management and regulation of all water-related activities, and regulation and monitoring of water utilities.

Paredes assured MCWD consumers that this development will not be translated into an increase in rates as the technology used was done with $10,000 grant.

“There is no direct out of the pocket expense from MCWD. So there is no need to worry about water rate increase because of this,” he said.  (FREEMAN)