True to its vision of contributing to the improvement of the living standards of the people, the Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD) initiated a report to the people through the Sangguniang Bayan (SB) of the Local Government Units (LGUs) within its service coverage area. Chairman of the MNWD Board of Directors, Jorge T. Palma along with Vicente Aniceto D. Rubio, OIC Assistant General Manager for Operations and Technical Services, attended the session of the SB Camaligan on October 12, 2020, followed by SB Magarao on October 21, 2020.

Chairman Palma presented MNWD accomplishments from 2015 to present, various mandates as provided under P.D. 198, and flagships projects such as the Septage Management Program, Bicol River Surface Water Facility, and Water Source Development Program after which was an open forum. The meeting gave way for Camaligueños, thru SB, to express their concerns regarding water quality and supply. Most of the raised issues stems from the limited source of water due to the decrease in the spring discharge of its watersheds brought about by climatic changes. Also, SB clarified the potability of MNWD’s tap water due to slight discoloration. AGM Rubio explained that water naturally contains manganese and iron which may affect water quality, but he reassured the members of SB that MNWD tap water is safe to drink because it goes through series of tests prior to injection in the entire distribution network.

Moreover, the SB session in Magarao presented issues that call for additional transmission lines, for the reason that several households, particularly those located at Sitio Libis, Magarao do not have enough water access. The body was correspondingly informed that Sitio Libis waterline project was already bidded out with the subsequent Notice of Award (NOA) that will soon be issued to address the need for more transmission and/or distribution lines in the said area. Also, inquiries were made regarding the operation of the Septage Management Program, its applicable fees and other provisions.

MNWD assured that actions are being taken to address these concerns and more projects should be expected in the coming year. Further, water source development projects are already in the pipeline, to meet the present and future demands.

With the onslaught of COVID – 19, most if not all realize that in order to win, we must fight together. It is important that as one community, we work collaboratively to improve our existing conditions including our water resources. Integrating LGUs into our programs, we become one step closer to achieving a better, safer, and sustainable environment. (YMMSavilla)

SB Camaligan led by Vice Mayor Diano SJ. Ibardaloza, Jr. listens intently as Chairman Palma presents MNWD’s Report to the People during the first LGU visit on October 12, 2020.

Presided by Vice Mayor Randy P. Villaralbo, MNWD was welcomed by SB Magarao during its session on October 21, 2020 to present MNWD’s accomplishments, water level status, and future endeavors.