Centralized wastewater treatment facility eyed

CEBU, Philippines — The establishment of a centralized wastewater treatment facility for Metro Cebu is now underway, with initial steps now in progress according to the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) in Central Visayas.

The efforts also align in the observance of World Water Day on March 22.

Kay Espinosa, officer-in-charge of the Ambient Monitoring and Technical Services Section of EMB Region 7, said in a forum that efforts toward the long-delayed facility have begun which also includes ongoing

studies.

“I believe naa natay mga linkages and we are looking for funding sa gobyerno ani, sa mga local government units naa natay gipang tap. Naa nay mga ongoing studies; this is something na medyo dako-dako na work,” Espinosa said.

She said the development of a centralized treatment system is crucial in addressing persistent water quality issues in Metro Cebu, which currently lacks such infrastructure.

The initiative is aligned with the National Septage and Sewerage Management Program (NSSMP), a government strategy aimed at improving sanitation systems and protecting water resources.

Espinosa said studies and planning efforts are ongoing, although implementation remains complex due to the scale and urban conditions of the area.

The agency made the statement ahead of World Water Day, with this year’s global theme, “Water and Gender,” highlighting the role of women in water resource management and the need to address inequalities in access.

Espinosa said the observance supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6, which seeks to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all by 2030.

In line with the observance, a water and gender activity will be held on March 19 at SM City Consolacion, initiated by the Butuanon River Water Quality Management Area Governing Board. The event will gather women’s groups and students to promote awareness of water protection and inclusivity.

The activity will include an exhibit featuring products made from solid waste collected from rivers, highlighting recycling efforts linked to environmental protection. A one-stop shop will also be set up in coordination with the Cebu City Environment and Natural Resources Office to assist the public with environmental permits and related concerns.

Espinosa said EMB 7 continues to conduct regular monitoring of water quality across Central Visayas, covering both freshwater and marine ecosystems, with assessments ranging from monthly to quarterly depending on priority areas. — Meg Nathalie Valeros Up Cebu Intern/IHM (FREEMAN)