Sangguniang Panlungsod seeks assurances over water supply amid El Niño

The Bacolod City Sangguniang Panlungsod recently passed two resolutions surrounding the Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa).

The first piece of legislation, penned by Bacolod City Councilor Wilson Gamboa, Jr., reiterates a resolution introduced last January calling for an explanation over the proposed 25-year joint venture the Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa) plans to enter with the PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation.

In operation for over 30 years, PrimeWater provides services including water system development, bulk water supply, water supply improvement and rehabilitation, along with a sewage waste management program.

The resolution cited RA 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991, which indicates government authorities are not authorized to implement projects or programs without proper consultation.

The second policy, also authored by Gamboa, calls on Baciwa to ensure there is an adequate water supply for the city amid the ongoing El Niño conditions.

According to AccuWeather, El Niño is a climate pattern that raises sea temperatures in the Pacific Ocean. Such a system can contribute to drought conditions due to reduced rainfall./WDJ