By CESAR JOLITO III
The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod approved on third and final reading an ordinance requiring all water distributors and suppliers in the city to install standby power generators in their pumping stations and wells to ensure uninterrupted water service during power outages.
The measure, titled the Permanent Power Generators on Pumping Stations Ordinance of Bacolod City, covers all water service providers operating within the city, including the Bacolod City Water District – PrimeWater Infrastructure Inc. and subdivision developers that supply water to homeowners.
City officials said the ordinance was enacted in response to persistent complaints from residents and institutions affected by water interruptions during frequent and prolonged power outages.
These disruptions have reportedly impacted households, hospitals, schools, and business establishments, raising concerns over public health, sanitation and economic activity.
Under the ordinance, covered entities are required to install and maintain fully functional standby generators capable of automatically operating during power failures.
The measure also encourages the use of alternative backup systems, such as solar-powered generators and uninterruptible power supply units, to further strengthen service continuity.
Councilor Caesar Distrito, principal author of the ordinance, said the measure is intended to protect access to a basic necessity.
“Water is a basic human right and an essential public service. This ordinance ensures that power outages will no longer automatically result in water shortages,” Distrito said, adding that the unanimous approval reflects the council’s resolve to improve service reliability amid recurring power and infrastructure challenges.
Co-author Councilor Dindo Ramos said the ordinance institutionalizes a long-term solution to a recurring problem.
“While power interruptions may be unavoidable, the disruption of water service should not be. This measure establishes a clear and enforceable safeguard for consumers,” Ramos said.
The ordinance was unanimously supported by Councilors Israel Salanga, Em Ang, Thaddy Sayson, Jason Villarosa, Celia Flor, Bobby Rojas, Homer Bais, Pao Sy, Dana Barzo, and Gles Gonzales-Palen.
Water service providers are given 60 days from the ordinance’s effectivity to begin installing standby generators, with full compliance required within six months.
Failure to comply may result in penalties, including a fine of P5,000 per day and possible referral to the Local Water Utilities Administration and other regulatory agencies.
The approved measure will be submitted to Mayor Greg Gasataya for approval before its implementation./CJ, WDJ