ROY GA WORKS TOWARD SOLVING ILIGAN’S WATER SUPPLY PROBLEM
Aspirant Mayor Roy Ga is taking significant steps to address the long-standing water supply issues in Iligan City. Recognizing the need for a sustainable and efficient water distribution system, he has actively sought out solutions by personally visiting the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD) to study different water supply systems implemented in other areas. His goal is to ensure that Iliganos have access to clean, affordable, and sufficient water for daily consumption and other needs.
Roy Ga has been vocal about the need for a practical and long-term approach to water management. His visit to COWD is part of a broader initiative to learn from successful water distribution models and implement best practices in Iligan. According to him, studying the mechanisms that have proven effective in other cities will enable Iligan to develop a more robust and resilient water infrastructure.
“We are doing this to fully understand and apply the most effective methods of expanding the water supply in Iligan. Our priority is the well-being of our people, ensuring that they receive clean and affordable water,” Roy Ga emphasized.
To achieve this, he has outlined a comprehensive plan that includes pipeline upgrades, reservoir expansion, and identifying additional water sources. These efforts are aimed at addressing Iligan’s recurring water shortages and preventing future service interruptions. Ga also recognizes that inefficient distribution and outdated infrastructure contribute to water scarcity, which is why he is keen on modernizing the city’s water systems.
Joining him in this endeavor are his key allies from the United Iligan Party, including Vice Mayor Wekwek Uy and Councilors Grace Catubig, Macky Macapagal, and Amador Baller. Together, they have committed to implementing water infrastructure projects that will benefit the residents of Iligan.
A Multi-Faceted Approach to Improving Iligan’s Water System
One of the significant problems Iligan faces is the inconsistent water supply, which has been a persistent issue for many years. Many households experience intermittent water flow, and some areas suffer from extended periods without access to clean water. To address this, Roy Ga has put forward a multi-faceted approach:
Infrastructure Modernization – Many of Iligan’s pipelines are outdated, leading to frequent leaks and inefficiencies. Ga’s plan includes the replacement and upgrading of old pipes to minimize water loss and improve water pressure throughout the city.
Reservoir Expansion – Increasing storage capacity is another crucial aspect of the plan. By constructing and expanding reservoirs, the city can store more water during peak availability periods and release it when needed, ensuring a steady supply for residents.
Exploring Additional Water Sources – The city needs to diversify its water sources to reduce dependency on a single supply. Ga plans to identify and develop new sources of water, such as deep wells and surface water reservoirs, to increase the city’s water capacity.
Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Collaborating with private entities and experts in the field of water management can accelerate the implementation of these projects. Ga is open to engaging with companies and organizations that can provide technical and financial support for water infrastructure improvements.
Smart Water Management Systems – Utilizing modern technology, such as automated leak detection and remote monitoring systems, will enhance the efficiency of Iligan’s water supply network. This will help in quickly identifying and addressing issues before they escalate into significant problems.
Community Involvement and Education – Raising awareness among Iligan residents about water conservation and responsible usage is also a part of the initiative. Ga plans to launch campaigns that encourage households and businesses to implement water-saving practices.
Addressing the Current Challenges
Iligan City’s water problem is not just about supply; it is also about management and distribution. Currently, many areas in the city experience weak water pressure, and some communities do not receive water at all during certain times of the day. These issues are exacerbated by aging infrastructure and a growing population.
To counter these challenges, Ga and his team are working closely with the Iligan City Water District (ICWD) to develop solutions that are both immediate and sustainable. One of their primary focuses is improving the efficiency of the existing water supply network by reducing water losses due to leaks and unauthorized connections.
Ga also aims to introduce policies that will support long-term water sustainability, such as incentives for businesses and households that implement water-efficient practices. Additionally, he is advocating for stricter regulations on industrial water usage to prevent over-extraction from limited resources.
Collaborating with Experts and Government Agencies
Understanding that solving Iligan’s water supply issue requires technical expertise and significant resources, Ga has initiated dialogues with local and national government agencies. He has been in discussions with the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to seek funding and technical assistance for large-scale water infrastructure projects.
Moreover, partnerships with universities and research institutions are being explored to conduct studies on sustainable water management practices. Ga believes that engaging with experts will help Iligan implement innovative solutions tailored to its specific needs.
A Vision for a Water-Secure Iligan
Ga’s long-term vision is to make Iligan a water-secure city where residents have uninterrupted access to clean and affordable water. His commitment to this cause is evident in his hands-on approach and active involvement in discussions and planning sessions related to water management.
“We can no longer allow Iligan to suffer from inadequate and ineffective water systems. We must act now to secure a better future for our city,” he stated.
To achieve this vision, Ga plans to introduce legislation that mandates periodic assessments of the city’s water supply system. This will ensure that necessary upgrades and maintenance activities are conducted regularly to prevent infrastructure from deteriorating to the point of failure.
Gaining the Trust of Iligan Residents
One of the most crucial aspects of Ga’s campaign is gaining the trust and support of Iligan residents. He understands that community engagement is key to the success of any large-scale infrastructure project. To this end, he has been conducting public consultations and town hall meetings where residents can voice their concerns and provide input on proposed water supply improvements.
By fostering transparency and open communication, Ga aims to build a strong partnership between the local government and the people of Iligan. He believes that by working together, they can implement solutions that are both practical and sustainable.
Conclusion
The water supply problem in Iligan is a complex issue that requires a strategic and well-planned approach. Roy Ga’s commitment to addressing this problem is evident in his proactive measures, including studying best practices from other cities, investing in infrastructure, and engaging with experts and residents alike.
With a comprehensive plan that includes modernizing pipelines, expanding reservoirs, exploring new water sources, and utilizing advanced technology, Ga is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and efficient water system in Iligan. His leadership and dedication to the cause have earned him the support of key officials and the broader community.
As Iligan moves forward, the success of these initiatives will depend on continued collaboration between government agencies, private sector partners, and residents. If implemented effectively, these solutions have the potential to transform Iligan into a model city for water sustainability in the region.
Under Ga’s leadership, Iligan can look forward to a future where clean, affordable, and accessible water is no longer a privilege but a fundamental right for every Iligano.