The Toledo City Water District (TCWD) in southwestern Cebu has been purchasing bulk water from Carmen Copper Corp (CCC) for over eight years without a formal written agreement. According to local reports, the TCWD has relied on verbal arrangements with CCC to supply water to its residents. The lack of a written contract has raised concerns among officials and residents about transparency and accountability in the water supply process.
The TCWD is responsible for providing clean water to over 100,000 residents in the area. CCC, a copper mining company, has been supplying water through its own infrastructure, which includes reservoirs and pumping stations. The informal agreement has allowed the district to secure a steady supply of water, but it has also created legal and administrative uncertainties.
This situation highlights broader issues in public service management in Cebu. Local officials have acknowledged the need for formalizing such agreements to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. The case has also sparked discussions about the role of private companies in public utilities and the need for clearer legal frameworks. The TCWD is currently reviewing its procurement policies to address these concerns.
