By Xander Ledesma
Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia has announced that the city government is considering a public-private partnership (PPP) to develop an upland water dam project aimed at boosting the city’s water supply.
The proposed dam is part of a broader plan to address water scarcity and saltwater intrusion in the city, which has been exacerbated by excessive groundwater extraction. The Regional Development Council-7 has called for improved freshwater sources to mitigate the impact of seawater intrusion on coastal communities.
Mayor Garcia noted that the demand for water in the Cebu metropolitan area exceeds the current supply provided by the Metro Cebu Water District (MCWD). This has led to increased reliance on private water drilling, which has contributed to the depletion of groundwater resources.
While the MCWD has denied permit applications for new water drilling projects, the city has observed a significant number of unauthorized drilling activities.
The proposed dam project, if implemented through a PPP, is expected to significantly increase water supply to MCWD. By capturing rainwater, the dam can help reduce reliance on groundwater and mitigate the risk of saltwater intrusion.