Cebu water consumers to pay less in March

CEBU CITY — Metro Cebu households will pay lower water bills this March, even as the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) implements a 38-percent rate increase.

The adjustment takes effect as the city experiences intense heat which drives up water consumption and put pressure on supply in some areas.

Meanwhile, MCWD spokesman Minerva Gerodias assured consumers that the district has enough water to meet demand. However, she warned that pressure might not remain steady in elevated areas, where usage has surged due to the hot season.

Lower rates despite hike

Despite the 38 percent increase in base rates, MCWD integrated the Power Cost Adjustment (PCA) and Purchased Water Adjustment (PWA) into the base rate, effectively resetting these charges to zero.

Previously, the PCA covered electricity costs for water generation, while the PWA accounted for expenses from purchasing water from bulk suppliers, including desalination plants.

Gerodias explained that incorporating these costs into the base rate helps offset the increase, making residential water bills more affordable.

Households consuming 10 cubic meters per month will now pay P213.95 instead of P343.07, saving P129.12. Those using 21 cubic meters will see their bills drop from P741.14 to P478.22.

Businesses pay more

While residential consumers will benefit from lower bills, commercial and industrial users will continue to pay higher rates based on their water consumption.

These sectors account for a large share of MCWD's revenue.

Gerodias said the adjustment is necessary to sustain operations, especially as the cost of bulk water procurement has increased from P15.20 per cubic meter to between P55 and P76 per cubic meter.

Before implementing the new rates, MCWD conducted public consultations in November 2022 and February 2025 to inform consumers, provide updates on expansion projects, and discuss the new water sources.

Water supply

MCWD continues working to maintain and improve water services as Metro Cebu's demand rises.

She clarified that while its daily water production remains at 300,000 cubic meters, high demand is causing low pressure in some areas, especially in elevated locations in Talisay and Cebu City.

Gerodias assured that supply has not decreased, but consumption surges affect distribution.

To address this, MCWD has standby water tankers and continues operating desalination plants in Mandaue City and Barangay Mambaling in Cebu City.