The Davao City Water District (DCWD) has publicly defended its proposed adjustment to water rates, following concerns raised by a local advocacy group. The agency insists the increase is essential for maintaining reliable service and is structured to remain affordable for consumers.
Consumer Group Voices Concerns Over Proposed Hike
In December 2025, the Mindanao Alliance for Progress (MAP) sent a letter to SunStar Davao expressing deep apprehension about the planned rate adjustments. The group emphasized that water is a fundamental necessity that must stay accessible to all households in Davao City.
MAP acknowledged that DCWD currently provides generally reliable service but demanded clearer explanations on how this will be sustained long-term, especially through its partnership with Apo Agua for bulk water supply. The group questioned whether the infrastructure is fully ready for bulk distribution and if investments would lead to real service improvements rather than just higher costs.
The alliance specifically challenged the planned 15 percent increase in 2026 and another 15 percent in 2027, asking if this was truly the best possible outcome for residents. MAP warned that higher water bills would add strain to families and small businesses already coping with rising prices for food, electricity, and education.
DCWD's Justification: Funding Future Water Security
Responding on January 9, 2026, DCWD spokesperson JC Duhaylungsod stated the agency understands MAP's position and shares the concern for accessible water. However, DCWD outlined several key reasons why the rate adjustment is unavoidable.
The water district highlighted its current performance, noting that 96 percent of its roughly 270,000 service connections enjoy 24/7 water with adequate pressure. It also claims to be the only water provider in the Philippines to have achieved climate resilience in its water supply.
DCWD explained that as a self-sustaining government corporation, it receives no funding from local or national coffers. Major future investments are required to:
- Sustain current service levels.
- Improve water availability for the remaining 4% of customers.
- Expand service to new areas.
- Develop new water sources and protect existing ones.
The proposed 30 percent increase over two years is described as the minimum needed to finance these plans without risking service reliability. Deferring the hike, DCWD argues, would jeopardize long-term sustainability amid rising operational costs and aging infrastructure.
Affordability and Transparency Measures Cited
On the critical issue of affordability, DCWD provided data asserting that even with the full adjustment, its water rates would account for less than five percent of the average income of Davao City's lowest income group.
The agency also pointed to existing socialized programs, like the Lifeline Water Rate, which charges residential customers using less than five cubic meters a flat rate of only P100 instead of the standard minimum charge.
DCWD underscored that the rate adjustment process includes transparency measures. A public hearing was held on October 24, 2025, with barangay representatives and stakeholders, followed by regulatory evaluation by the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA).
The agency concluded that the ultimate goal of the adjustment is resilience, not burden, aiming to ensure safe, reliable, and affordable water for all Davaoeños for years to come. MAP, in turn, reiterated its call for accountability and compassion as the city moves forward.
