WATER, water everywhere and not a drop to drink seems to be the dilemma facing “I Am Iloilo City” natives these days. Yet the irony is, it’s been raining almost every day these past weeks.
Our country’s vulnerability to climate change – fourth in the world according to the Global Climate Risk Index – is a harsh reality to so many of our fellow Ilonggos. Although water everywhere shows a troubling truth: that our country is in fact water-stressed. When the heavy rains stop, we face water scarcity that threatens our daily lives and livelihood.
Take note that “I Am Iloilo City” was one of the 400 cities and municipalities that declared a state of calamity during El Niño, requiring P12.5 million in calamity funds to address the urgent needs of the city.
In Iloilo, the water shortage affected more than 20,000 residents. Across the country, El Niño is estimated to have cost damage and loss to agriculture amounting to P9.5 billion.
During El Niño, average rainfall decreases by 21% in the Visayas. As climate change exacerbates the frequency and intensity of the El Niño phenomenon, water stress is poised to worsen in the city unless immediate and decisive action is taken right now.
This back-and-forth between too much and too little water creates problems for our city’s growth and stability. The uncertain water supply hurts businesses, puts pressure on city services, and exacerbates socioeconomic disparities, as the most vulnerable suffer the most from both floods and water shortages. As we deal with these water problems, it’s clear that solving our water issues is not just about addressing today’s problems; is crucial for our city’s long-term growth and prosperity.
And then, there’s the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project Stage II (JRMP II) set to be fully operational in 2025. It is perhaps the largest water reservoir in the Visayas region. By tapping into readily available surface water sources, it will address critical environmental concerns aligned with the sustainability story of our city.
Recognizing the potential of JRMP II, there’s a recent bid by Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) to the Public-Private Partnership Board for a water supply project, which proposes to tap into JRMP II.
With this collaborative approach, the private sector offers expertise in technologies and industry trends, potentially propelling Iloilo to the forefront of water management. While the public sector ensures that these advancements align with our city’s progressive growth trajectory and serve our citizens equitably.
Considering these possibilities, they should prudently and carefully evaluate all proposals and keep doors open to opportunities that could benefit our city, especially from players with a proven track record in infrastructure development.
Currently, Ilonggos buy water from third-party retailers for their drinking and household needs. Water refilling stations proliferate in our area where drinking water sells at around P25-40/5 gallons or up to P2,100 per cubic meter while bulk water deliveries through tankers cost P150-P500/cubic meter.
Indeed, when taps go dry, people scramble for water to be used for drinking and daily cooking; small businesses close for lack of sustained water supply; hospitals/schools’ struggle to maintain sanitation. That scenario would not be far off if we do not seriously consider exploring a sustainable water source now.
The goal should be to find partners that respect values and are committed to Iloilo’s long-term success, ensuring that Iloilo’s water supply does not only meet today’s needs; the idea is to find partners that also look at tomorrow and the generations beyond while fueling growth for the region.
Of course, we want Iloilo to continue its rise as a prime city in the Philippines. Let’s open our minds to these possibilities while keeping tab at what could be best for Iloilo here and beyond./PN
