THE Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) has officially embarked on a fresh leadership era, marking a significant transition for the agency responsible for managing Cebu's vital water resources. In a strategic move designed to inject stability and efficiency into operations, the board has successfully elected a complete slate of officers to oversee the city's critical water services.
A Seasoned Leader Returns to the Helm
During a pivotal board meeting held on Thursday, January 29, 2026, esteemed economist and businessman Ruben Almendras was unanimously elected as the new chairperson. Almendras brings a wealth of institutional knowledge to this role, having previously served as both a director and chairperson for MCWD from 1993 to 2004, making him a deeply familiar and trusted figure within the organization.
His election process was notably streamlined, as Almendras stood as the sole nominee for the position. The nomination was formally presented by Lawyer Earl Bonachita and received a second from Lawyer Mariefel Roble. While directors Miguelito Pato and Jodelyn May Seno abstained from casting formal votes, they publicly affirmed their full and unwavering support for the newly appointed leader, signaling a unified front.
Establishing a Complete Leadership Team
The leadership reorganization extended beyond the chairman's role. Following his election, Chairperson Almendras promptly nominated the remaining members of the executive team to ensure comprehensive governance:
- Vice Chairperson: Lawyer Earl Bonachita, who assumes the role previously held by Jodelyn May Seno.
- Board Secretary: Lawyer Mariefel Roble.
This election completes the board's composition with its full complement of five members. Officials emphasize that this fully staffed board is poised to significantly accelerate and streamline decision-making processes. Notably, the current board comprises members appointed across different city administrations, yet the meeting atmosphere was characterized by a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.
Implications for Cebu's Water Future
Ruben Almendras is widely recognized for spearheading major institutional reforms during his prior tenure with the water district. His return is viewed as a strategic move to reintegrate expert, experienced leadership at a crucial juncture when steady and knowledgeable guidance is paramount for the agency's success.
Director Jodelyn May Seno highlighted that the election proceedings were conducted peacefully and efficiently, facilitated by having only one nominee for each leadership position. With this new, cohesive team now firmly in place, MCWD officials are reaffirming their commitment to principles of good governance. The primary focus remains on ensuring the uninterrupted and reliable delivery of public water services to the community, leveraging this renewed leadership structure to meet Cebu's evolving water needs.
