Group Urges Action as Bacolod Faces Water Stress

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – Water Watch Advocates convenor Wennie Sancho has urged Bacolod City Water District–PrimeWater and the city government to launch a consumer education campaign on the growing issue of “water stress.”

Sancho said water stress occurs when the demand for water exceeds available supply during a certain period or when poor water quality limits its use.

In a weekend press statement, Sancho cited Iloilo Business Club President Emil Diez, who said water availability in Western Visayas now exceeds the global threshold for water stress, stressing the need for advanced Integrated Water Resource Management.

Sancho noted that Bacolod City is currently experiencing water stress, with PrimeWater reporting a 15 percent reduction in the city’s water supply.

This reduction has caused shortages in several residential areas.

He said the situation has resulted in adverse impacts on consumers, including frequent water interruptions that hinder access to clean water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

Water stress can also lead to higher water bills as households turn to more costly water sources or treatment methods, Sancho said.

He added that low water pressure makes everyday tasks like showering, washing dishes, or doing laundry more difficult.

The condition may also reduce water quality, resulting in murky or turbid water that poses health risks or requires extra treatment.

“If water availability exceeds the global threshold, it signals that a region or city is facing serious water scarcity challenges,” Sancho said.

This situation, he warned, could lead to increased competition for water among agriculture, industry, and domestic sectors, resulting in potential conflict and inefficiencies.

He also said water scarcity could worsen water quality issues, as lower water flows may be insufficient to dilute pollutants and maintain safety standards.

Sancho urged Baciwa–PrimeWater to adopt advanced integrated water resource management practices to balance demand, protect quality, and promote sustainable use.

He emphasized that such strategies can help regions and cities manage water resources effectively and mitigate the effects of water stress.

“But the needs of the people must be prioritized over corporate interests for this program to succeed,” he said.

“It is crucial to manage water resources effectively to address the issue of water stress,” Sancho added.