DAVAO CITY, Philippines The Davao City Water District has assured consumers it will not increase its rates despite adjustments in prices of basic commodities and services.
Rodora N. Gamboa, general manager of the water utility, said the increase in water rates in most parts of the country is driven by the depreciating peso since many of them have foreign-denominated loans.
"We dont have foreign loans, your water district is very liquid," said Ms. Gamboa. She said the current water rate of P10.70 per cubic meter, the result of a 30% increase in 2005, would likely remain at this level for the next three years.
The water district is servicing about 156,000 homes, pumping out 212,000 cubic meters everyday with 30% of the production being wasted through either pilferage or leakage. The water utility is generating P100 million in funds to replace old pipes. - BusinessWorld