Dr. Gerry J. Caño, Board Director of the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD), explained that the proposed 40 percent increase in water rates is necessary to sustain the quality of service.
He noted that the adjustment is based on factors such as the inflation rate, consumer price index, and the paying capacity of consumers.
The plan also considers the agency’s 10-year development program, which includes repairing water lines to address the 50 percent non-revenue water problem and constructing additional reservoirs.
Dr. Caño pointed out that the current rate of ₱21 has been in place since 2011, making it insufficient to cover rising costs of electricity, salaries, and other expenses in 2026.
He clarified that the petition will undergo strict evaluation by the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA), along with a scheduled public hearing before any approval is granted.
