MWSS chief seeks new water sources

MANILA, Philippines — The new administrator of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) yesterday admitted he is facing big challenges ahead but vowed to prioritize improving water security and finding new water sources.

During the turnover ceremony, MWSS administrator and retired military general Emmanuel Salamat said he is in the process of studying how to address the water shortage in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

Salamat is replacing Reynaldo Velasco, who will now serve as the MWSS chairman.

“We only have one water source. Angat Dam is not enough to provide us the water that we need for our consumers and the public. We need to tap and collaborate with water firms on how to go about this,” he added.

Salamat said President Duterte’s marching orders is for him to look into all agreements and how things should be improved.

It was in March when Duterte berated MWSS officials and water concessionaires over the service interruptions in some parts of Metro Manila and Rizal province.

He has also threatened to terminate the contracts of the concessionaires if the supply issues are not resolved.

Salamat also set aside the comments of Sen. Grace Poe, who questioned his qualifications for the post.

Last week, Poe said she is interested in what a retired general can actually offer as MWSS chief.

“I would rather work and focus than comment on that. In my 38 years of experience in the military, we can handle people and manage our organization,” Salamat said.

He maintained that he serves at the pleasure of the President but admitted that government corporate service is a new thing for him.