𝗠𝗢𝗔𝗟𝗕𝗢𝗔𝗟, 𝗖𝗘𝗕𝗨 — For the first time in years, residents of Barangay Basdiot can finally turn on their taps and enjoy a steady flow of clean, affordable water, thanks to the Cebu Provincial Government’s Level III water system that has finally ended the long-standing water supply challenges in the area.
On Wednesday, January 22, 2025, members of the Cebu Provincial Waterworks Division began installing smart meters and pipes in selected households in Purok Ibis, marking the latest milestone in the Capitol’s bulk water infrastructure program and a dramatic shift for the community, which has long battled against water scarcity and the heavy burden of expensive private water suppliers.
“Karon nalipay najud kay niabot najud nga naay tubo nga dako. Pila ka tuig wa man jud mi tubig,” one of the residents in the area, Porferia Yosores, told Sugbo News.
Another resident, Jessa Echavez, expressed her relief, saying, “Lisud jud labi na pila ray income. Dako kay ming pasalamat nga nanay tubig unya duol ra dris amo.”
The project is part of the Cebu Provincial Inter-LGU Waterworks project in Moalboal. With a total investment of over P300 million, the project will deliver Level III water distribution to nine barangays in Moalboal, benefiting nearly 9,000 households that registered for the service. Amogn those that will benefit are the resorts and scuba diving shops operating in the town which is known for its thriving tourism industry, attracting visitors from all over the world with its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and incredible diving spots.
Prior to the project, residents and small businesses relied on private water suppliers charging as much as P250 per cubic meter, which is only equivalent to five drums of water.
Last Tuesday, January 21 during a general assembly attended by residents and resort owners from nine barangays in Moalboal, the Cebu Provincial Water Resource Authority (PWRA) announced the tariff rates for the bulk water supply project where household consumers will only have to pay a minimum rate of P115 per month for water consumption ranging from one to 10 cubic meters (cu.m.), with escalating rate for those who would be consuming more. While commercial and industrial establishments such as resorts, will be charged a minimum of P230 for consumption of one to 10 cu.m, with escalation rate also for those who would be going beyond that.
Barangays Basdiot and Saavedra are among the nine barangays in Moalboal now covered by the Capitol’s water system.
This development is part of Cebu Provincial Government’s bulk water program that aims to provide Level III water distribution to at least 25 local government units (LGUs) across the province.
Now, the people of Barangay Basdiot can enjoy the simple yet transformative privilege of having water at their doorstep—something they had once only dreamed of. | BJR