THE subpoena issued by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is a significant aid for the improvement of the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD).
Following President Bongbong Marcos’ directive, the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) has assigned several interim officials to address COWD’s problems, aiming to enhance water service for the residents of Cagayan de Oro.
COWD faces numerous issues, with a primary concern being the consistently high rate of non-revenue water, often exceeding 50% annually. This wasted water increases consumer costs.
Annual reports from the Commission on Audit reveal various irregularities in COWD, such as declining revenues since 2018, a loss of P32 million in 2022, and dormant accounts totaling P987,067.31.
The assigned interim officials have faced constant opposition from COWD personnel, particularly from suspended officials like Tony Young and Gerry Caño. These suspended officials and other employees have shown insufficient cooperation in the investigation.
With the NBI issuing a subpoena, it is expected that the named suspended officials will provide necessary cooperation in the investigation process.
Many COWD clients hope that Young, Caño, and other COWD employees will cease their opposition to LWUA’s takeover. Recently, many have wondered why these suspended officials strongly resist, speculating they may be hiding secrets linked to COWD’s issues and poor service.
In my opinion, if the suspended officials have nothing to hide, they should not oppose the investigation, similar to Mayor Klarex Uy, who immediately expressed support and cooperation following the President’s directive.
Now that the NBI has issued a subpoena, there should be no reason for these suspended officials to withhold their cooperation, as the well-being of COWD is also the well-being of the residents of Cagayan de Oro.
Concerned water consumer
