By Richa Noriega
The National Water Resources Board (NWRB) is monitoring potential water sources over the increased demand amid the rising cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the country.
(Photo by Noel CELIS / AFP / FILE PHOTO / MANILA BULLETIN)
NWRB Executive Director Sevillo David Jr. said the agency is expecting the increase in water usage as hand hygiene is one of the safety measures in avoiding the spread of the virus.
"Titignan po natin kung paano tayo makakatulong. Gusto rin nating pangalagaan 'yong lebel , karampatang supply na maaari pa nating maipamigay sa mga susunod na buwan partikular ngayong summer," David was quoted in a report by ABS-CBN News on Wednesday.
(We will look at how to help. We would like to preserve the water level supply that will be useful in the next few months particularly in summer.)
The World Health Organization earlier reported that the practice of frequent hand washing is a more effective way of preventing the spread of the virus.
According to the report, the agency is coordinating with the different water concessionaires on the possible increase in demand due to COVID-19.
David said cloudseeding, tapping rivers, freshwater sources, as well as Manila Bay, are some of the potential water supply alternatives.
NWRB urged the public last March 4 to conserve water as service interruptions will be implemented in some parts of Metro Manila with the likelihood of the decline of water level in Angat Dam this summer.
David appealed for public understanding stressing the decrease in water pressure and rotational water service interruptions or rationing are necessary to avert severe water shortage during the dry season.
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