No new water lines at Lahug fire site, UP asks MCWD
OFFICIALS of the University of the Philippines (UP) Cebu is asking the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) not to install new water connections at the fire site on Sitio Avocado in Barangay Lahug, Cebu City without the school’s consent.
They also want MCWD Chairman Renato Mercado not to be involved in the decision-making on the request since his wife, Lucelle Mercado, is the city administrator.
“UP Cebu expresses its deepest concern in the event that these informal settlers would apply for water connection. As the registered owner of the said property, it is imperative that UP Cebu’s consent and acquiescence be obtained before any installation can take place,” said the school’s letter to MCWD.
The letter was signed by UP Cebu’s legal counsels Rene Abcede Jr., Francis Michael Abad and Jesa Anne Carla Balahadia with authority from UP Cebu Dean Liza Corro.
A forcible entry case has been filed by UP in court against the settlers at the fire site.
When sought for comment, Mercado said the water district can’t just stop providing water to its consumers.
“We are supposed to provide water where it is needed because water must be provided as a human right. It shouldn’t be the water district that would deprive people of that,” he told reporters yesterday.
He assured that MCWD will continue to provide water for those who already have existing accounts with the MCWD within the area.
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