This year has brought unimaginable challenges to our country and us Bicolanos, as health crisis and environmental disasters struck the Philippines. These calamities affected everyone in so many aspects including our day-to-day routine, more so, our economic status.

To heed the call for maximum protection amid the crisis, water has become one of the most essential elements during this outbreak. With this, the Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD), its management supported by the Board of Directors through Board Resolution 30 s. 2020, suspended the imposition of penalty charges and disconnection activities to ensure that the community has continues access to clean and potable water since the start of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ).

For more than eight (8) months since March 17, this resolution was implemented for the benefit of our consumers. However, as all sectors including MNWD have been severely affected by the pandemic, it was necessitated that above mentioned activities be sustained. Board Resolution 92 s. 2020 lifted the prior suspension effective on November 16, 2020.

According to Commercial Services Department (CSD) the past 8 months noted an exponential increase in number of delinquent accounts affecting MNWD’s collection rate. From an average record of 3% out the total number of accounts, it spiraled to 14% or an equivalent of 1,300 accounts to 7,600 in a few months. Meanwhile, in terms of collection, several accounts have arrears ranging from 2 to 10 months. Hence, the call for the resumption of the usual collection and disconnection activities to ensure continuous operation and uninterrupted service.

Recognizing the economic situation and challenges that individual households are encountering, MNWD through the CSD headed by Department Manager Virginia I. Nero, authored the “Heal as One” Collection Program. This program entails a staggered payment scheme that our consumers may avail. This provides an easier settlement of bills for customers who are experiencing financial challenges since the start of this pandemic.

The program shall cover active accounts, residential, government, and commercial, with outstanding balances until August 31, 2020, regardless of the number of unpaid billing months. An initial payment of 0% – 50% of the total outstanding accounts and the balance payable monthly within 6 months to 12 months, depending on the capacity to pay of the customer, is to be pro-rated to the subsequent current billings. The Reconnection fee of P500.00 shall be waived until July 31, 2021 for accounts disconnected on September 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020 or 3 months from the date of the issuance of Office Order lifting the suspension of disconnection activity, whichever comes earlier.

MNWD recognizes the community’s perpetual need for water and always works on ways to make it accessible to all, eradicating barriers caused by financial challenges brought about by the times. (YMMSavilla)

The Management Committee (MANCOM) with the Board of Directors during the business planning concerning long-term plans and future endeavors of the MNWD.

Consumers are encouraged to avail our payment options under the “Heal as One” Collection Program by visiting our office from Monday – Friday at 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.