By Chris V. Panganiban
Inquirer Mindanao Bureau
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur— Declaring a state of calamity will allow the city government to accelerate emergency spending, mobilize more agencies and establish temporary water systems as Butuan continues to grapple with its water supply crisis, Butuan City Mayor Lawrence Fortun said.
In a video posted Monday morning by the Butuan City Public Information Office, Fortun explained that the declaration was not merely symbolic but a necessary step to strengthen ongoing interventions and prepare the city for similar disruptions in the future.
The City Council approved the declaration through an urgent resolution after the water supply situation showed no significant improvement.
Fortun said the city government had already activated Task Force Awas in anticipation of the worsening crisis. The task force is activated during emergencies to coordinate the city’s response, mobilize resources and assist the Butuan City Water District, particularly when water rationing becomes necessary.
The mayor met with BCWD officials last Friday to discuss the situation. Following the meeting, the city government deployed additional water tankers, equipment and logistical support for rationing and other emergency initiatives.
“We need to intensify our intervention,” Fortun said.
According to the mayor, the calamity declaration will first allow the city to access emergency funds more quickly. These funds may be used to purchase additional water tanks and other facilities; rent pumps and generators; install emergency pipelines and hoses; and provide water purification, distribution and temporary supply systems in affected barangays.
Second, the declaration will shorten the processing of funds and other emergency requirements that could otherwise take longer under regular government procedures.
Fortun stressed, however, that accelerated transactions would remain subject to applicable government accounting, auditing and procurement regulations.
Third, the calamity status will enable a whole-of-government response. Fortun said addressing the crisis should not rest solely on the city government and BCWD but should also involve national government agencies, funding institutions and other organizations capable of providing assistance.
Fourth, the declaration will help the city intensify measures to protect public health. Prolonged water shortages can affect household sanitation, hygiene and access to safe drinking water, making immediate intervention necessary in affected communities.
Fifth, it will allow Butuan to obtain resources and assistance beyond the city government’s regular financial and operational capacity.
Fortun said the city’s efforts would continue even after normal water service is restored. The government plans to establish more permanent or standby water supply systems in affected barangays to improve their readiness for future disruptions.
“We will no longer panic if this situation arises again. We will be ready for it,” the mayor said.
The city is also pursuing long-term solutions, including the exploration of alternative water sources outside the Taguibo watershed. Fortun said the city continues to rely heavily on Taguibo because it remains the cleanest available source of water.
The mayor acknowledged the frustration of residents affected by the crisis but appealed for patience, understanding and cooperation while emergency measures are being implemented.
“This is not the time to quarrel. This is the time to work together as one community and one people of the city,” Fortun said. “We are one Balanghai.”
He said overcoming the water crisis would require both a whole-of-government and whole-of-community approach.
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