Davao city: The Davao City Water District (DCWD) has issued a warning that the city's water supply could become insufficient in approximately five years if current trends in population growth and economic expansion persist.

According to Philippines News Agency, Jovana Cresta Duhaylungsod, the spokesperson for DCWD, stated in a radio interview that the city currently enjoys a surplus of climate-resilient water. However, the rising demand due to migration and investment-driven growth is increasingly pressuring the water system. At present, about 98 percent of DCWD customers benefit from 24/7 water service. The agency is actively working to extend this round-the-clock service to all residents, while simultaneously preparing for new residential and commercial developments.

Duhaylungsod emphasized the need for proactive measures to secure reliable water sources, strengthen infrastructure, and ensure that Davao City continues to have safe, sufficient, and affordable water in the future. The DCWD is maximizing the delivery of 300 million liters per day through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project from the Tamugan River, which benefits over a million residents. This initiative has enhanced water security by ensuring a more dependable and sustainable supply.

To ensure long-term reliability, reduce dependence on groundwater, and maintain safe, sufficient, and affordable water, operational improvements have already been made to cut downtimes and improve pressure management. The DCWD is also seeking approval for a 30 percent water rate increase in two tranches to fund new water sources, service expansion, and infrastructure upgrades. Any proposed rate adjustment will be reviewed by the Local Water Utilities Administration to ensure affordability, with bills for the lowest-income households remaining below the PHP500 threshold. Despite the full increase, the cost for the first 10 cubic meters would remain around PHP320.