By Neska Centina
After proposing a P15 fee increase for meter repair and maintenance last month, the Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa) announced they would be deferring the measure.
According to Baciwa Board chairman, Atty. Lorendo Dilag, implementation would be deferred “out of respect to the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP).”
The SP earlier urged Baciwa to put off the increases until the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) verifies a legal basis for the hikes.
However, Board Director Mona Dia Jardin said they were assured by Baciwa management that LWUA consultation is not required to implement the increases.
The board is scheduled to meet with the LWUA to determine if the matter could be executed unilaterally by the utility firm.
Dilag said they will not implement the increase unless the issues will be clarified.
The fee is intended to cover water meter relocation, elevation, testing, replacement, and other maintenance services. /NC, WDJ