The Jaclupan facility of the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) has recorded a significant decrease in water supply, dropping from 25,000 cubic meters to just 21,000 cubic meters per day. This reduction is attributed to the El Nino phenomenon affecting water sources in southern Cebu.
Impact of El Nino on Water Sources
According to MCWD General Manager John Dx Lapid, the decline began last month after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) recorded low rainfall levels, resulting in reduced water flow in some parts of Cebu City and nearby towns.
"The southern part of Metro Cebu, particularly some barangays in Cebu City and parts of Talisay, are the areas currently affected by the decrease in water volume from the Jaclupan facility," he said in an interview.
Current Situation
Despite the drop in production, MCWD clarified that there are no widespread water interruptions at present. The current problem is limited to low water pressure rather than a complete loss of supply.
"There is still water. It is not that their water is completely gone," Lapid said. He added that some consumers in affected areas may already be experiencing slow water flow due to the reduced production.
Stable Supply in Northern Cebu
Lapid noted that the situation in northern Cebu remains stable, as supply from the bulk water source in Carmen continues to meet demand. He reminded that based on past El Nino episodes, the Carmen source has remained resilient even during prolonged dry spells.
However, the water district acknowledged that consumers need to prepare and adjust their expectations, especially during the summer season.
Contingency Measures
To address the potential impacts of El Nino, MCWD has begun coordinating with the Cebu City Government following a meeting with Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival to discuss contingency measures and plans for additional water supply.
Among the measures being considered are the deployment of mobile siphon tanks to upland barangays, additional groundwater development projects, and controlled extraction of water from designated fire hydrants for government-authorized water tankers.
