Cagayan de Oro City Councilor Roger Abaday voiced strong opposition against the proposed 40 percent water rate hike by the Cagayan de Oro Water District slated for October, citing persistent supply shortages and sub-par service.
Abaday argued that increasing rates is unfair while consumers continue to suffer from low water pressure, murky water, and lack of 24-hour service in critical barangays.
He also highlighted that public consultations were conducted in only three of the city’s 80 barangays, meaning the majority of residents never gave clear consent.
While the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) and National Water Resources Board (NWRB) hold jurisdiction over rate approvals, the city council plans to exercise its police powers to submit an official petition and resolution urging a hold on the proposed increase.
