Residents of Cebu City struggling with water and power shortages in the aftermath of Typhoon Tino could soon receive significant financial assistance through a proposed measure seeking to waive utility bills for two months.
Financial Relief for Typhoon-Affected Families
The city continues to grapple with the lingering effects of the severe weather system that left widespread damage across the region. The entire city has been placed under a state of calamity due to the extensive destruction caused by the typhoon.
Councilor Pastor "Jun" Alcover Jr. has introduced a resolution urging Mayor Nestor Archival to request that both the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) and Visayan Electric waive payment for water and electricity services during November and December 2025.
This initiative demonstrates sensitivity to the pressing needs of citizens during this challenging recovery period, according to supporters of the measure.
The Impact of Typhoon Tino on Cebu Communities
Typhoon Tino left behind extensive service interruptions, property damage, and severe livelihood disruptions that have made daily life difficult for many Cebuanos.
For families in barangays hardest hit by the typhoon, recovery represents a serious and lengthy process rather than a quick fix. Under these circumstances, paying utility bills—already a basic burden during normal times—can become a significant financial hardship for those suffering.
The proposed two-month bill waiver would provide substantial assistance in easing this burden, freeing up limited household funds for more critical needs such as food, medicine, and home repairs.
Payment Plan Considerations
Councilor Alcover's proposal includes a reasonable payment mechanism designed to prevent sudden financial shock to consumers. The plan would allow customers to pay the deferred amount through six monthly installments from January to June 2026.
These equal amortizations would be added to regular bill payments, creating a manageable approach to addressing the accumulated utility costs.
However, the success of this initiative depends on whether MCWD and Visayan Electric will agree to the proposal. If approved, consumers should prepare for higher payments starting in January 2026, when regular bills will include the additional amortization for the two months of deferred payments.
All residents should anticipate and prepare for these increased payments at the beginning of 2026 if the measure moves forward.
