By Nanette Guadalquiver
BACOLOD CITY – The local government has launched the “Patubig Sa Barangay” program to offer water supply to households facing scarcity or depletion of water sources caused by the prolonged dry spell associated with El Niño.
Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez emphasized the significance of guaranteeing access to clean and dependable water for every household in the city.
“This initiative is especially critical amidst the El Niño threat and ongoing enhancements by Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa)-Primewater,” he stated in a press release on Wednesday.
On Wednesday, water trucks were deployed to some areas in Barangays 32, 33 and 26.
The day before, water was also distributed to households in Purok (District) Masagana, Purok Progreso, and Purok Tumpok in Barangay Taculing, and in Bata Elementary School.
“We are committed to ensuring every resident has access to clean and reliable water, especially during challenging times such as El Niño,” Benitez said.
He added that a filtration system will also be installed in water trucks to make the supply potable.
Villages, where residents need water supply, are advised to submit requests to the Public Affairs and Assistance Division, which will coordinate the schedule of delivery with the fire stations and water truck service personnel.
The Bureau of Fire Protection-Bacolod City Fire Station has also been serving areas with limited water supply since last month upon request of the village officials.
Last month, Benitez formed a coordinating action team mainly to expedite the implementation of vital infrastructure to improve water supply for Bacolodnons.
The body, which the mayor himself chairs, is working to come up with a coordinated action and approach plan as well as build effective collaboration between and among agencies in both the public and private sectors.
Benitez noted “as much as 15 percent” reduction in the level of the city’s water sources, based on the report of Baciwa-PrimeWater. (PNA)
