MCWD prepares for ‘dry spell’
CEBU, Philippines - To ensure that the water supply will remain stable during the last quarter, the Metropolitan Cebu Water District has added seven percent to its current production capacity.
"We are preparing for a reserve of seven percent more in our production capacity. Reserve is very important so that we won't have a problem with our supply," said MCWD Acting General Manager Ernie Delco.
The El Niño phenomenon has reduced the average production of 33,000 cubic meters for about five percent, he recalled.
"So if the projected decline based on past experience occurs, we can still operate normally, with a spare two percent," Delco said, admitting that surface water is the most affected among the water sources.
The Buhisan Dam in Cebu City and the Jaclupan Dam in Talisay City are the main surface water sources of MCWD.
To improve the capacity, MCWD has tapped sources beyond the metropolis like in Carmen town, which will supply it with 18,000 cubic meters this year and 35,000 cubic meters by next year. — Jessa J. Agua/JMO
"The rainy season that we are experiencing now is helping us. From the average of 33,000 cubic meters daily production, we now have 40,000," Delco said.
MCWD also has five deep wells on standby that can be tapped as the dry spell strikes.— Jessa J. Agua/JMO (FREEMAN)
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