In a decisive move to address persistent water service disruptions, the Bacolod City government has officially approved a landmark ordinance on third and final reading. This new regulation mandates all water distributors, concessionaires, and suppliers operating within the city—including the prominent Baciwa-Primewater—to install standby power generators at their wells and pumping stations. The primary goal is to guarantee an uninterrupted water supply during frequent and prolonged power outages that have plagued the area.
Key Provisions of the Ordinance
The ordinance, formally titled the “Permanent Power Generators on Pumping Stations Ordinance of Bacolod City,” was authored by Councilor Caesar Distrito, who chairs the City Council committee on human resource and development. It was co-authored by Councilor Dindo Ramos. Under this measure, water service providers are required to install and maintain fully operational standby generators capable of automatic start-up whenever power failures occur. This requirement extends to subdivision developers who supply water to homeowners, ensuring comprehensive coverage across residential and commercial sectors.
Emphasis on Resilience and Public Welfare
Councilor Distrito emphasized that water is a basic human right and an essential public service. He stated, “With this ordinance, we are ensuring that power outages will no longer translate into water shortages. This is a decisive step to protect public health, sanitation, and the overall welfare of the people of Bacolod.” The ordinance reflects the City Council’s strong commitment to enhancing resilience and service reliability amid ongoing infrastructure and energy challenges in the region.
Encouraging Alternative Backup Systems
In addition to traditional generators, the ordinance encourages the adoption of alternative backup systems to further ensure service continuity. This includes options such as solar-powered generators or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units, promoting sustainable and innovative solutions for water distribution networks.
Implementation Timeline and Penalties
The ordinance sets clear deadlines for compliance. Water service providers are granted 60 days from its effectivity to commence the installation of standby generators. Full compliance must be achieved within six months. Non-compliance will result in penalties, including a fine of P5,000 per day and possible referral to regulatory agencies like the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA).
Long-Term Solutions Over Temporary Fixes
Councilor Ramos highlighted the importance of institutionalizing long-term solutions rather than relying on temporary responses. He noted, “While power interruptions may be unavoidable, the disruption of water service should not be. This ordinance puts in place a clear, enforceable safeguard to ensure that households, medical facilities, and businesses continue to have access to water when they need it most.”
Next Steps for the Ordinance
Councilor Distrito disclosed that the approved ordinance will now be submitted to Mayor Greg Gasataya for his approval. Following this, it will be published in a local newspaper prior to implementation, marking a significant step forward in Bacolod City’s efforts to secure reliable water services for all its residents and businesses.
