More Cebu communities could gain access to bulk water supply as the Cebu Provincial Inter LGU Waterworks Systems Office (CPIWSO) targets nearly tripling its existing connections while expanding its waterworks systems across the province.
CPIWSO currently serves 5,365 connections but aims to increase this to 15,000 as it raises production and extends its network to more municipalities.
The office operates bulk water systems in Carmen and Moalboal, while new systems are being prepared in Oslob, Barili and Malabuyoc.
CPIWSO presented its expansion plans to Gov. Pamela Baricuatro as the provincial government works to strengthen its water supply infrastructure.
The Carmen Bulk Water System can produce up to 3 million liters per day (MLD), while the Moalboal system has a capacity of 6 MLD.
From January to June 2026, Carmen generated P1.62 million in water revenues, while Moalboal generated P22.36 million.
The province expects annual revenues to reach about P27 million in Carmen and P44 million in Moalboal once both systems operate at full capacity.
The province also plans to activate Barili Cluster B, which is expected to extend water service to additional barangays after permitting and installation requirements are completed.
Meanwhile, the proposed bulk water systems in Oslob, Barili and Malabuyoc are targeted for completion between 2027 and 2028.
The three projects are projected to generate annual revenues of about P18 million in Oslob, P9 million in Barili and P18 million in Malabuyoc.
The expansion will also require a larger workforce. CPIWSO currently has 26 employees but is proposing to increase its personnel to 115 to support its central office and field operations.
The office expects to operate as many as seven waterworks systems by 2027. Its monthly water revenues could reach about P10 million by then, according to its status report.
But provincial officials said expanding water production must go hand in hand with protecting the sources that sustain Cebu’s water supply.
Engineer Noel Tabasa raised the proposed establishment or reconstitution of a Cebu Watershed Authority, including a possible mechanism that would allow the province to collect a water levy from water contractors operating in Cebu.
Baricuatro also stressed the need to protect Cebu’s watersheds, noting that water security is closely linked to the province’s infrastructure and development.
“You’re really the key sa atong success,” the governor told waterworks officials.
Photo courtesy of PhilStar
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