ILIGAN CITY (PIA)–The Iligan City Waterworks System (ICWS) is currently undergoing significant transformations as part of its comprehensive rehabilitation efforts.
ICWS Division Head Glenn Villacin shared that they embarked on a series of proposals aimed at revitalizing not only the infrastructure but also the organizational structure.
The rehabilitation of ICWS goes beyond mere infrastructure improvements. The organization is taking bold steps to enhance its functional structures, ensuring a more streamlined and accountable operation.
“We’re also looking at reengineering our functional structures because we want to make our organization more functional and have accountability when it comes to its operation,” he said.
One of the key developments includes the introduction of a middle management program for ICWS designed to facilitate succession planning for division heads, a critical move as some division heads are expected to retire next year. By nurturing and grooming future leaders, ICWS aims to sustain its leadership and maintain seamless operations.
In the realm of technological advancement, ICWS is committed to enhancing its systems for better service delivery. The management is actively working on implementing a comprehensive billing system for customer information management. Furthermore, there are proposals for a management inventory system, targeting efficient supply management in the organization’s warehouses.
Maintenance and operations are also at the forefront of ICWS’s modernization efforts. The introduction of a maintenance and operations management system is underway, aimed at integrating it into the organization’s pipeline system development plans. This strategic move will ensure a more streamlined and proactive approach to maintenance, ultimately benefiting the end-users.
Recognizing the importance of a rapid response system, ICWS has introduced a specialized team known as the Bantay Agas Reaction Team. Mayor Frederick Siao issued this directive to enhance responsiveness to customer concerns. Composed of members from various divisions, including skilled plumbers, this composite team is dedicated to promptly addressing complaints and concerns from the community.
Their tasks include monitoring illegal tapping, unauthorized use of water pumps, and direct suctions from the service line. By establishing this team, ICWS aims to amplify its presence and make a tangible impact on the lives of its customers.
In addition to monitoring complaints expected from consumers on Facebook, complaints can also be directed to the hotline at 223-9678 or directly addressed to Engr. Jimmy Sato, the maintenance and operations division head, at 0917-716-8083. The line is open every day, including Saturdays and Sundays.
Moreover, the water pressure in Baclaan, Barangay Suarez, has risen by 2 pounds per square inch (PSI). Similarly, there has been an additional 4 PSI increase in water pressure in Tominobo. This follows the adjustment made by the ICWS, which turned the gate valve at the water source an extra five times.
According to Roy Openinano, the focal person of ICWS, this is the result of repairing three pipes in Barangay Suarez and Tomas Cabili back in June. After increasing the valve’s opening, reports indicated water flow in areas that were previously dry.
They received reports that after the valve was adjusted, water began flowing to previously dry areas that had been without water before.
He added that the valve adjustment was done gradually to prevent sudden pipe bursts caused by a rapid increase in water pressure. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
