Following a direct order from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to alleviate the suffering of residents in Siquijor due to power outages and subsequent water shortages, the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) has swiftly mobilized resources to address the island province’s critical water supply issues.
During his personal assessment of Siquijor’s extended power blackouts, President Marcos specifically instructed concerned agencies, including LWUA, to resolve the ensuing water scarcity. “Mismong Presidente ang nagbigay ng direktiba na ayusin ang problema ng kuryente at tubig sa Siquijor. We’re happy to take on the challenge,” stated LWUA Administrator Jose Moises Salonga during a Malacañang press briefing on Friday.
The current power crisis has severely impacted Siquijor’s water infrastructure, with low power supply hindering the proper operation of crucial water pumps, thereby disrupting distribution across the entire province.
To provide immediate relief, LWUA promptly requested a power generator from Dumaguete City in Negros Island. This generator is specifically intended to power water pump operations, ensuring that water can be distributed to affected areas. Administrator Salonga clarified that this generator is separate from those being brought in by the National Electrification Administration for general power supply.
LWUA has closely coordinated with the nearest water district, the Dumaguete City Water District, which is in a joint venture with Metro Pacific Water. “They have already agreed that they will lend a water lorry and a genset. Dadalhin na iyon sa Siquijor Island,” Salonga confirmed. Furthermore, LWUA has identified a viable water source within Siquijor from which the lorry will obtain water for distribution to communities in need.
Looking beyond immediate relief, LWUA has also approved a financial package last week as a long-term solution. This package is designated for the comprehensive upgrading of the Siquijor Water District, aiming to bolster its infrastructure and ensure a more resilient water supply for the future.
