Free drinking water may soon become more accessible to pedestrians, commuters and other residents in busy parts of Cebu City as the local government seeks support from businesses and institutions for its “Hydrate Cebu City” initiative.
City Councilor Dave Tumulak introduced the measure, which the Cebu City Council approved during its regular session earlier this week. It encourages establishments, schools, churches, markets and other organizations to set up water dispensers and refill stations in areas frequented by the public.
“This is a call for all business establishments, schools, churches and markets to come up with initiatives to help our people cope with the effects of El Niño,” Tumulak said in an interview.
The proposed stations may be installed in public markets, plazas, parks, transport terminals, commercial districts and other crowded areas. Schools may also work with their respective Parents-Teachers Associations to make drinking water available to students.
Tumulak said the Cebu Chamber of Commerce had agreed to encourage its member businesses to participate by offering free drinking water as a community service.
He added that several establishments had already expressed interest after he promoted the initiative on social media. Businesses and their employees may contribute based on their capacity, including placing water supplies outside their premises for pedestrians and commuters.
Colon Street was among the areas Tumulak identified as a potential location for the stations. He said even establishments that could provide only a few gallons of water would still be able to help passersby.
Some businesses had also offered to supply paper cups, although Tumulak encouraged residents to bring reusable containers.
“We also encourage our people to bring their own tumblers,” he said.
He emphasized that participating establishments must ensure their drinking water is safe and that dispensing equipment receives proper maintenance.
The resolution also calls on the city government, through concerned offices and in coordination with barangays and other stakeholders, to conduct information campaigns on proper hydration and the health risks associated with prolonged heat exposure.
It identifies children, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, outdoor workers and commuters as among those who may be particularly vulnerable to extreme heat.
Tumulak also cited health concerns reported in schools, including cases of nosebleeds and skin rashes among students. He said teachers had been reminded to observe appropriate first-aid measures and precautions.
The initiative forms part of the city’s preparations for El Niño, which is expected to bring warmer temperatures and severe dry conditions in the coming months.
A Nov. 4 advisory from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, cited in the resolution, reported a very strong El Niño in the tropical Pacific that was expected to persist until the first half of 2027.
The proposed hydration stations are intended to give residents easier access to drinking water while they are outside their homes. Participation remains voluntary, with businesses, institutions and residents encouraged to contribute according to their available resources.
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