MCWD Reaffirms Commitment to Reducing Water Losses and Modernizing Infrastructure
The Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) has strongly reaffirmed its dedication to cutting non-revenue water (NRW) and advancing infrastructure modernization, responding to concerns raised by the civil society group Cebu Electricity Rights Advocates (Cera) regarding high leakage rates. In a statement issued on Tuesday, March 2, 2026, MCWD outlined ambitious targets to reduce NRW to 25 percent by the end of 2026 and further down to 20 percent by 2027.
Understanding Non-Revenue Water and Its Financial Impact
Non-revenue water refers to water that is lost before reaching consumers due to factors such as leaks, theft, faulty meters, or other operational issues, leading to significant revenue losses for utilities. MCWD clarified that consumers are not billed for this leaked water, emphasizing that billing is strictly based on consumption measured through meters. The utility projects that reducing NRW could generate an additional P109.8 million in revenue in 2026 and P335.8 million in 2027. These funds are earmarked for critical initiatives, including pipeline rehabilitation, service improvements, and anti-pilferage campaigns.
Infrastructure Investments and Accountability Measures
To achieve these goals, MCWD is investing heavily in replacing aging pipelines and installing new distribution lines across its service areas. The water district has also intensified its campaign against water pilferage and is holding contractors accountable for any project-related leaks. "Reducing NRW remains a priority, and measurable progress is underway," MCWD stated, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance system efficiency.
Civil Society Concerns and Historical Data
Earlier, Cera convenor Nathaniel Chua expressed concerns, noting that despite recent rate increases, MCWD continues to lose an estimated 30 to 32 percent of its total water supply. He described this water loss as a "fiscal and humanitarian disaster," arguing that the revenue lost to NRW could have been used to stabilize the aging distribution network or subsidize lifeline consumers. Historical data supports these concerns: the Commission on Audit reported in MCWD's 2022 annual report that NRW increased from 25.26 percent in 2020 to 32.67 percent in 2022. Additionally, the Local Water Utilities Administration noted that MCWD's NRW reached 36 percent in 2024, well above the 20 percent maximum allowable rate, resulting in an estimated annual revenue loss of P120 million.
Service Area and Future Outlook
MCWD serves a wide area, including the cities of Cebu, Mandaue, Talisay, and Lapu-Lapu, as well as the municipalities of Consolacion, Liloan, Compostela, and Cordova. The utility's commitment to reducing water losses and modernizing infrastructure is crucial for ensuring reliable water supply and financial sustainability in these communities. As MCWD moves forward with its targets, stakeholders will be closely monitoring progress to address both fiscal and humanitarian implications.
