Water democracy in the Philippines: a case study on the municipal government’s efficacy in providing access to quality water of the families residing in Barangay Medicion 1-B, Imus, Cavite

Abstract

Water democracy is a concept wherein each and every individual living in the world is entitled to acquire equal and adequate access to safe water. This natural resource is most vital for the survival of human life, and with Earth’s natural resources shrinking, water suddenly acquires value as the private sector seeks to create profits from the newly created demand for quality water.

But this should not be the case. It is also a responsibility of the public institutions to ensure that the general population is duly served and is able to tap into the water resources for their everyday usage. This study is centered on the proper implementation of equal water distribution policies and the possible effects of the lack of said government programs. The provision of adequate water is an important social service, and must not be left upon the hands of profiteering organizations who wish to take rather than serve the masses.

This case study conducted within the Philippine local government context exposes the harsh effects of unequal water distribution and at the same time, analyzes policy tools which local governments may use as a foundation in building their water networking and distribution programs. The government as an institution has many diverse tools, legal and physical, which it may use to fully organize, plan and implement programs and ultimately, fulfilling their mandate of serving the general constituency.