The Pamana Corporation, responsible for distributing potable water in Dagupan, assured residents that, despite the ongoing drought, the city’s water supply remains stable, and no interruptions are expected.
Glenn Gomez, the branch manager of Pamana, made this assurance during a city council session on Monday (May 25), where the council was assessing the capacity of public utilities and agencies to serve the community during the current drought affecting Dagupan and other parts of Pangasinan.
Gomez stated that Pamana operates 25 pumping stations, delivering 100% of the water supply to all 31 barangays in Dagupan. Additionally, the company has two water reservoirs from which potable water is sourced for residents.
Since its joint venture agreement with the Dagupan City Water District took effect in 2021, Pamana has expanded its pipeline network from 201 kilometers to 234 kilometers across Dagupan.
The newest source of underground water is located in Carael, and a new source is being developed in Barangay Lasip Grande to improve service to the southern barangays. Previously, water service in Carael and nearby areas was limited to just 12 hours a day. However, thanks to the newly installed pumping station in Carael, all western barangays now have 24/7 water service.
Gomez also mentioned that the island barangay of Pugaro is currently receiving water from Bonuan Gueset through underwater pipes along the Calmay, while plans are in place to dredge a new well there.
In a related matter, Gomez announced that the individual suspected of stealing numerous water meters from various barangays in Dagupan has been arrested in Calasiao by local authorities. The suspect, whose identity was not disclosed, was caught driving a vehicle loaded with some of the stolen water meters.
Responding to questions from Councilor Lino Fernandez, the president of the Liga ng mga Barangay in Dagupan and the incumbent barangay captain of Lucas, Gomez reported that a total of 68 water meters have been stolen so far. He noted that these were old water meters, and the thief may have believed the brass components to be valuable. However, Gomez clarified that the amount of brass in the meters is insignificant.
Gomez informed the city council that Pamana has replaced its old water meters with new ones that are less appealing to thieves. Councilor Fernandez revealed that nine residential households in Barangay Lucao have reported losing their water meters to theft.
Households needing replacement meters can obtain them from Pamana by paying a deposit ranging from P1,000 to P1,500 each, according to Gomez.
Leonardo Micua