Water rates in Davao City to increase in 2020

THE DAVAO City Water District (DCWD) is set to increase rates within the second half next year, its first price adjustment since 2013. DCWD Spokesperson Bernardo D. Delima Jr. said they are now finalizing the rate hike, which is being undertaken in line with system upgrade projects in preparation for the bulk water supply that is expected to come online by 2021. The rates will be subject to public consultations and approval by the Local Water Utilities Administration. “The result of the study is still up for final deliberation by our top management and board of directors,” Mr. Delima told BusinessWorld in a text message. At present, residential consumers pay P137.30 for the first 10 cubic meters (cu.m.) and P25-P40 for meter maintenance charge. Mr. Delima noted that “the last time we had a water increase was in 2005,” which was implemented under a staggered scheme up to 2013. — Carmelito Q. Francisco