The Calamba Water District (CWD) has implemented a cutting-edge ultraviolet (UV) hydro-optic disinfection system at its pumping station in Barangay Bucal, significantly improving water quality for residents of this city.

In an interview on Wednesday, Exequiel Aguilar Jr., general manager of CWD, shared that this advanced disinfection method reduces the need for chlorine in the service pipes that supply households.

Submerged closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems are also now in place to monitor the clarity of the water in the reservoir.

The modernization program for the water facility began in 2021 as a response to the Clean Water Act of 2004.

CWD has allocated PHP100 million for this initiative, entirely funded through its own revenues, being classified as a government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC).

As part of the modernization efforts, CWD has also established a water meter laboratory to ensure accurate billing for consumers and a bacteriological laboratory to analyze water samples from various connections throughout the city.

Most of the water supplied by CWD comes from the Makiling Forest Reserve, benefiting 67 percent of the city’s population.

“With these modern facilities, we can guarantee clean, high-quality water for our customers,” Aguilar said.

Notably, this is the first UV disinfection system implemented by any water district or concessionaire in the province of Laguna and the entire Calabarzon region, setting a new standard for water quality in the area. (PNA)