The Covid-19, one of the most dangerous coronaviruses to cause respiratory infections, did not spare the Bicol region more specifically the Camarines provinces. A number of cases have been recorded and continuous efforts are being implemented to ensure the safety of the public.

Heeding to this call from the national and local government including health organizations in the country is the Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD), which early on has enacted measures for the protection of its employees and customers.

On March 16, 2020, MNWD through the directive of GM Virgilio B. Luansing I, announced the temporary suspension of disconnection services of water lines to ensure that households within its coverage area have access to clean and potable water, which is very important especially during this lockdown.

Further, MNWD waived the imposition of penalty charges on overdue accounts effective March 17, 2020, until further notice. Basic preventive measures were also strictly observed within office premises such as social distancing, wearing face masks, and temperature scanning upon entry to the office compound.

Recognizing that water is crucial during the Enhanced Community Quarantine period, the Board of Directors headed by Chairman Jorge T. Palma through Board Resolution No. 28 s. 2020, extended its services to the frontliners who are in need of clean and potable water for drinking and handwashing purposes.

Through Dr. Arbee Bascuña and the Naga City Police Office (NCPO), MNWD was able to respond and continues to deliver water-related needs to our frontliners at the checkpoints stationed across boundaries of Naga City. Alongside this is the lorry service deployed to the endpoints of MNWD’s coverage area such as Gainza, Canaman, and Magarao.

In addition, on April 12, 2020, MNWD installed a drinking fountain for the Persons Under Monitoring (PUMs) housed at Pacol Elementary School. Reports for leak repairs and maintenance are likewise being responded upon by our plumbers while pump operators work round the clock to ensure uninterrupted water supply.

In this trying time, MNWD is one with the nation and the community in this fight against Covid-19. As we continue to pray for healing and recovery, may we also recognize our individual responsibilities to help all frontliners across industries by strictly obeying preventive measures and keeping ourselves safe at home. (APVSGonzales)