A TECHNICAL working group (TWG) with members from different sectors has been formed to help address water supply issues in Zamboanga City. Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar issued Executive Order 536-2020 dated Jan. 17 creating the TWG as “a strategy to provide adequate, safe and sustainable water supply” through the “convergence and collaboration of efforts among government institutions and private organizations.” One of the primary tasks of the group, which will be chaired by Vice Mayor Rommel S. Agan, is to review and make recommendations on Zamboanga City Water District’s (ZCWD) proposed rate hike. Ms. Salazar earlier said her position is that ZCWD should first improve service and explore other funding options before pursuing the proposed price increase. The EO cites that “The Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Development Plan 2017–2022 acknowledged the inadequate supply of water in the region particularly in urban areas due to increasing population and the impacts of climate change.” The TWG’s other tasks include supporting the information campaign on responsible water use, review plans and programs on new water supply sources, and the establishment of waste water treatment facilities. The TWG members will include city government officials, and leaders from the business, civil, and academic sectors.

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