LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu — Mayor Cindi King-Chan joined officials from the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD), Isla Mactan Cordova Corporation (IMCC), and Vivant Water for the ceremonial tapping of the IMCC-MCWD injection point in Barangay Babag. The milestone marks a significant step toward strengthening water security across the city and Mactan Island.
A New Source of Potable Water
The ceremony, held at the Isla Mactan Desalination Plant in Cordova, formally connected desalinated seawater to the MCWD distribution system. This additional supply provides a sustainable alternative source as Lapu-Lapu City faces growing demand from households, businesses, and tourism establishments. The initiative supports efforts to diversify water sources and reduce dependence on groundwater.
Vivant Water President Atty. Jess Anthony Garcia explained that desalination draws water from the sea rather than groundwater. This approach eases pressure on aquifers while strengthening supply resilience for Cebuano communities. The connection delivers potable water directly to the distribution network, benefiting thousands of residents.
Protecting Groundwater and the Environment
Over-extraction of underground aquifers on Mactan Island has long caused saltwater intrusion, ruining well water quality. Sourcing tap water from desalinated seawater reduces deep-well pumping significantly. This allows underground aquifers to recover and preserves fragile coastal ecosystems from permanent salinization.
Lessening reliance on natural groundwater protects local wells and supports environmental sustainability. The desalination plant provides a rainfall-independent supply that remains steady during dry spells, summer heatwaves, and El Niño weather patterns. This resilience is crucial for a rapidly urbanizing island economy.
Supporting Economic and Community Growth
Lapu-Lapu City hosts major resorts, industrial parks, and commercial hubs that require consistent water service. Expanding the overall grid capacity ensures commercial establishments can operate without competing with residential communities for limited fresh water. The injection point in Barangay Babag strengthens distribution in high-demand zones.
Mayor King-Chan emphasized the importance of investing in alternative and climate-resilient water sources. She noted that the city's own efforts, including rainwater harvesting and responsible water use, complement this infrastructure investment. Water security, she said, requires both infrastructure and community participation.
A Shared Commitment to Resilient Infrastructure
MCWD Board Chairman Ruben Almendras highlighted the importance of innovative solutions and partnerships in meeting growing water needs. Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Phillip Lo underscored the project's role in strengthening water security across Mactan Island. Vivant Corporation CEO Arlo A.G. Sarmiento expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort.
The ceremonial tapping reinforces the shared commitment to providing a more reliable, diversified, and climate-resilient water supply. It stands as a model for how public-private partnerships can address critical infrastructure challenges. The people of Lapu-Lapu City can look forward to a more dependable water future.
