By Nimfa Estrellado Mayor Angelica "Gigi| Portes joins the Pagbilao delegation during the flag raising ceremony, which also featured a ...
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| Mayor Angelica "Gigi| Portes joins the Pagbilao delegation during the flag raising ceremony, which also featured a display showcasing the municipality's Seal of Good Governance on February 10, 2025 in Pagbilao, Quezon. (Pagbilao LGU) |
PAGBILAO, Quezon—From Pagbilao to San Pablo City, the search for better water solutions is underway. Mayor Angelica "Gigi" Portes, along with the Municipal Development Council and Local Finance Committee, is exploring best practices and innovative technologies to ensure a secure water future for Pagbilao residents.
This directive led to a recent visit to the San Pablo City Water Treatment Facility by a Pagbilao delegation that included Acleo Rodolfo Piñol, Executive Assistant to the Mayor; Maristel Merjudio, Budget Officer; Ryam Tolentino, Municipal Engineer; Ronelo Rustia, Environment and Natural Resources Officer; Jan Luke Patrick Go, Planning and Development Officer, among others.
During a flag raising ceremony on Monday, February 10, 2025, Merjudio explained that the visit included a facility study, focusing on the treatment processes and infrastructure. The delegation also consulted with San Pablo City officials, led by Vicente Amante, to learn about their experiences and challenges. The goal was to identify sustainable and efficient solutions for Pagbilao, ensuring a reliable water supply for its residents.
"Severe water shortages in Pagbilao are impacting homes, businesses, and essential services. A reliable water supply is crucial for the health, sanitation, and daily life of every resident and institution. Benchmarking with other municipalities will help Pagbilao identify areas for improvement and potential solutions." Merjudio said.
Pagbilao residents who experience difficulties obtaining a reliable and sufficient water supply, ranging from inconsistent supply and water shortages impacting daily activities to water quality concerns, unpredictable water schedules, and the lack of effective resolution of complaints reported through channels like the 8888 Citizen’s Complaint Hotline. The LGU's water delivery operations, while commendable, are a temporary solution
Merjudio emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "Water is life, so the local government of Pagbilao, led by Mayor Portes, is striving to fix the water supply." She added, "While water shortages impact everyone, we have tasked our management and technical teams to study long-term solutions, anticipating increased demand from population growth and expanding businesses."
To gain insights into effective water management, the Pagbilao delegation observed the San Pablo facility's operations, focusing on modern technologies, best practices, and innovative approaches, including those implemented by JE Hydro & Bio-Energy Corporation, recognized for its advanced water treatment facilities and Level-III water distribution systems.
These observations included efficient water distribution and supply management, addressing water quality complaints, alternative water sources and sustainability measures, and partnerships and governance. This gathered information will inform the development of a comprehensive plan to upgrade Pagbilao's water infrastructure, aiming to provide residents with a consistent supply of clean and safe water.
Following this benchmarking visit, the next steps will include: detailed technical assessments of Pagbilao's existing infrastructure; proposal development and stakeholder engagement; pilot projects and infrastructure upgrades; implementation; and developing a long-term strategy. This initiative demonstrates Mayor Portes' commitment to a secure water future for Pagbilao, ensuring the community's well-being and economic prosperity.
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