Dumaguete:Metro Dumaguete Water (MDW) has issued a call for public vigilance following the theft of approximately 20 water meters in various areas of the city. The utility is urging residents to report any suspicious behavior around water meter installations.

According to Philippines News Agency, Katrin Folgo, spokesperson for MDW, highlighted the potential impact of these thefts on water conservation efforts. The stolen meters have resulted in unquantified water losses, which is a significant concern as the region braces for the possible effects of the El Niño phenomenon. Folgo warned that the thefts could disrupt the water supply, particularly as both the utility provider and the public are encouraged to conserve water in anticipation of dry conditions.

The thefts, reported over the past two weeks, occurred in less populated areas, including the villages of Camanjac, Batinguel, Candau-ay, Junob, Pulantubig, Bajumpandan, and Daro. The stolen meters were disconnected from water pipes, leading to leakages. Folgo noted that the perpetrators might be part of an organized group equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to remove the meters.

In related news, MDW's Hugas Luwas Handwashing Facility program has benefited around 10,000 public school learners in Dumaguete City. As part of this initiative, MDW recently donated its tenth handwashing facility to Candau-ay Elementary School, promoting hygiene and sanitation among students. This donation coincided with Global Handwashing Day, a United Nations initiative aimed at raising awareness about proper hand hygiene.

Furthermore, on October 17, MDW planted 5,000 mangrove propagules in Barangay Banilad. This effort, in partnership with the Allied Mangrove Planters Organization (AMPO) and supported by the Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce, emphasizes MDW's commitment to environmental stewardship. The activity is part of MDW's ridge-to-reef program, which connects upland watershed protection with coastal ecosystem conservation.