A Local Waterworks System that Works

The town of Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro is known for its white sandy beaches, beautiful coves, and rich marine life. The place has therefore attracted many tourists, local and foreign alike and as a consequence, the tourism industry thrived over the years. The supply of potable water in the community has thus become a critical concern not only of the residents but also among the resort operators.

In response to this critical need, the local government embarked on a municipality-led water system. With a determined leadership, the LGU was able to secure a loan of P6,000,000.00 in 1995. To date, pipes have been installed even on hilly terrain and a remote island barangay. The supply of potable water is assured. As a result of this, water-borne diseases were minimized if not totally eliminated. Likewise, the steady and reliable supply of potable water contributed to the improvement of livelihood, agriculture, and commerce. As of December 1998, 10 out of 13 barangays or more than 2000 consumers benefited from the project.

To sustain the supply of water at source, the municipality integrated an environmental management plan to maintain and rehabilitate the watershed area. It involves the participation of the Iraya Mangyans as caretakers as they are the direct stewards of upland resources. In recognition of their invaluable support, the Sangguniang Bayan has passed a resolution that will allocate 5 percent of the total municipality income for the development programs intended for the Mangyans after the loan has been fully paid. Local groups are regularly doing forest rehabilitation and monitoring activities within the watershed areas of Mt. Malasimbo and Dimayuga. The waterworks system is of a gravitational spring type and does not need constant oiling, tuning and maintenance. To minimize the cost, the LGU provides the materials to set up the water system like pipes and cement and the local residents take care of the labor and maintenance. To determine the accurate amount of consumption, households and commercial establishments are provided with water meters. This program is a proof of the political will of the LGU to serve its people, and to protect the environment and to bring revenues to the municipality. This program is a tangible manifestation that the political will of LGUs could make a big difference in the delivery of basic services to its constituency.