BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – Water being supplied to this city is safe for public consumption, according to the City Council’s health committee.
The water has undergone proper processes, stated Councilor Alan Zaldivar in his committee report.
The affirmation came after clarifications regarding a precautionary advisory issued during a temporary service disruption caused by water pipe repairs.
The committee’s findings provide reassurance to Iloilo City residents that the water they receive meets safety standards, even amidst temporary challenges faced by the distributors.
Councilor Candice Magdalene Tupas, who raised the issue in a privileged speech in October, sought clarification following concerns from residents regarding a precautionary advisory issued by Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW).
MPIW recently issued a boiling water advisory after FloWater Resources Inc., one of its bulk water suppliers, conducted preventive maintenance from October 14-20.
The maintenance activities temporarily reduced water supply and pressure across the distribution system.
MPIW warned that this reduction in pressure might result in back pressure, back siphonage, or the entry of external water into the system through pipe cracks or breaks.
The advisory recommended boiling water before use to neutralize any potential contaminants and safeguard public health during the disruption.
Councilor Tupas passed a resolution requesting MPIW and South Balibago Waterworks (SBW) to reaffirm their commitment to providing safe water.
She said the water firms were legally mandated to supply safe, potable drinking water to consumers in Iloilo City.
After reviewing the situation, the health committee concluded that the water supplies from MPIW and SBW are indeed safe for consumption.
Alfredo Tayo III, MIWD general manager, reiterated during the hearing that water injected into the distribution system had already undergone necessary safety processes before being supplied to consumers.
MPIW also explained that their advisory to “boil water prior to consumption” was precautionary and issued during a weeklong supply stoppage caused by repairs.
MPIW noted that during this period, they could not guarantee the source of water being consumed by their customers.
SBW, on the other hand, informed the committee of their frequent water testing protocols to ensure the safety of their supply.
The City Health Office also presented data on acute gastroenteritis (AGE) cases in Iloilo City, detailing potential causes and preventive measures to address waterborne illnesses./PN
