PB wants NWRB functions transferred to prov’l water body

CEBU, Philippines - The Province of Cebu is seeking for the devolution of functions of the National Water Resources Board  to the Provincial Water Resources Authority.

Yesterday, the Provincial Board passed a resolution sponsored by PB Member Thadeo Ouano requesting the NWRB to devolve its functions to the PWRA concerning the management and development  of  the water resources of Cebu province.

 Ouano reported that the province is already experiencing water-related problems such as salt water intrusion due to over-extraction of groundwater, encroachment and uncontrolled developments in watershed areas.

 He said outbreaks of sanitation and water-related diseases and the inadequate supply of water for domestic or potable, commercial, industrial and agricultural uses is already reaching critical levels.

 â€œThe Province of Cebu sees the need to sustainably manage its water resources, equitably conserve and effectively utilize its water resources, potable or otherwise for the benefit and service of its constituents,” Ouano said.

 Most of the functions and responsibilities for management and development of water resources falls within the mandates of the NWRB.

 Ouano said such highly centralized institutional arrangement prohibits and hinders the effective management of water resources.

 He cited a report by Presidential Assistance for Climate Change and former environment secretary Elisea Gozun supported and adopted by the Cebu Uniting for Sustainable Waters Resolution which proposes to implement both decentralization and devolution of NWRB’s functions to the Province.

 Ouano also pointed out Section 9, Article VI of the Environment Code of the Province of Cebu (Ordinance No. 2012-13) which provides for the creation of a PWRA, which is comprehensively  tasked to implement ways and means to plan, develop, and manage the Province water supply and resources.  (FREEMAN)