Suan airs concern over amendment of Rio Verde water supply resolution

DURING the 76th regular session presided over by Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, Councilor Aga Suan raised concern regarding the proposed amendment to Resolution No. 14895-2024, interposing no objection to the application of Rio Verde Water Consortium, Inc., to provide comprehensive Level III Water Supply to all barangays in Cagayan de Oro City currently lacking adequate water provision from the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD).

The proposed amendment seeks to eliminate a clause that specifies Rio Verde's pricing structure, which initially sets the rate at ₱15.00 per cubic meter for the first three years, with a potential increase to not more than ₱16.00 per cubic meter from the fourth to fifteenth year of operations.

Suan emphasized that one of the primary motivations behind considering Rio Verde as a water supplier is their promise to provide the city with clean and affordable water. Removing this clause leaves the assurance solely reliant on verbal commitments, which he finds concerning.

In his view, relying solely on ‘words’ introduces risk, especially when dealing with such crucial social matters. He argues that assurances, documented on paper, are essential for ensuring accountability and avoiding future predicaments like the current water supply challenges.

Trust, he asserts, should be backed by written guarantees rather than hopeful promises to safeguard the interests of the city and its residents.