From the Sidelines
By: Ray G. Talimio Jr.
“Low Pressure, Delayed Repairs, and Rising Public Concern”
Residents across several parts of Cagayan de Oro City are reporting a new wave of water problems. Unlike previous interruptions, many households are experiencing extremely low pressure rather than a complete outage. Water flows only in small amounts during certain hours, forcing families to store whatever supply they can collect.
The situation was discussed during the March 7 interview over Magnum Radyo hosted by Jun Albino and Ailyn Acorin, where two key figures involved in the city’s water system provided updates.
During the interview, Cagayan de Oro City Water District (COWD) Chairman Gerry Caño said that the bulk water supply currently being delivered by Cagayan de Oro Bulkwater Inc. (COBI) is below the agreed operational capacity. According to him, the West service area is receiving less than 2,500 cu.m per hour, while the East service area is receiving less than 800 cu.m per hour. These reduced volumes help explain the pressure drops now experienced in many communities.
The reason cited for the lower output is the condition of the filtration system at the treatment facility. Joel Baldelovar, General Manager of High Valley Cooperative which maintains the filtration plant, said during the same interview that the system requires repair because it cannot generate the needed volume under current conditions.
However, Baldelovar clarified that the repair timeline may not be as long as earlier feared. He explained that the facility operates with four (4) filtration trains within two (2) modules, and the rehabilitation can be done one train at a time. Because of this configuration, he said the work may be completed in less than a month while still allowing water production to continue, although at reduced volume.
In the vernacular portion of the interview, Baldelovar also stressed that repairs should move forward without further delay, remarking that the situation cannot remain in a state of “sige lang unya-unya na sa pag repair,” referring to repeated postponements in undertaking the necessary work.
When bulk supply falls below the designed operating capacity of a distribution network, pressure across pipelines typically drops. Water systems rely on stable inflow and storage to maintain pressure across service areas. When inflow is reduced, areas located farther from reservoirs or at higher elevations experience the effects first. This explains why many households encounter weak flow rather than a total outage.
For many residents, the issue is becoming increasingly urgent. Water is essential for cooking, sanitation, and daily household activities. Even partial supply disruptions can quickly affect ordinary routines.
At a time when the country is already facing rising fuel costs and potential energy challenges, many citizens are asking a simple question. Will the current water problem be resolved soon, or will it continue to be a long-term burden for the city’s residents.
Sources: Magnum Radyo 99.9 interview with Jun Albino and Ailyn Acorin, March 7, 2026.
Photo Credits: Magnum Radyo 99.9 broadcast screenshots featuring COWD Chairman Gerry Caño and Joel Baldelovar, General Manager of High Valley Cooperative.
Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the author.
About the Author:
Ray G. Talimio Jr. is a Certified Public Accountant and veteran columnist on governance, economic policy, and public accountability. He is a Past President and Past Chairman of the Board of the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation Inc., a former Co-Chairman of the Regional Development Council Region X Economic Development Committee, and a National Officer of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants. He served as BIMP-EAGA Chairperson from 2023 to 2025.
