Attorney John Dx Lapid, a former radio broadcaster, has been officially appointed as the new general manager of the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD). This significant appointment took place on Monday, March 16, 2026, with Lapid stepping into the role previously held by Edgar Donoso. In a telephone interview conducted on the same day, Lapid outlined his immediate priorities for the water district, emphasizing the need to stabilize its operations while conducting a thorough review of existing projects and contracts.
Financial Review and Contract Renegotiation
Lapid stated that his administration will honor all current agreements but plans to study them closely for potential renegotiation. He highlighted specific concerns regarding Bulk Water Supply contracts, where MCWD pays higher rates but sells water to consumers at lower prices. This discrepancy has raised questions about the financial health of the agency, prompting Lapid to prioritize a financial reassessment to ensure long-term sustainability.
Addressing Operational Challenges
One of the major operational challenges identified by Lapid is non-revenue water (NRW), which refers to water lost due to leaks, illegal connections, or aging infrastructure. Lapid acknowledged NRW as a critical issue that impacts the efficiency and reliability of MCWD's services. To combat this, he plans to implement strategies aimed at reducing water loss and improving system integrity.
Service Improvements and Policy Enforcement
In an effort to enhance customer service, MCWD intends to bring services closer to applicants rather than requiring them to visit the office in person. This initiative is part of a broader push to make water access more convenient and responsive to community needs. Additionally, Lapid confirmed that the policy of disconnecting accounts that fail to pay within one month will remain in effect. He emphasized that this measure is crucial for strengthening revenue collection and maintaining financial stability, ensuring that MCWD can continue to provide reliable water services to the residents of Cebu.
