At A Glance
- The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) said that the Philippines currently has enough water supply amid the El Niño phenomenon.<br>LWUA Administrator Vicente Homer Revil explained that there are preparations being made to mitigate the hot season, like ordering various water districts to create and assess the supply inventory, meeting with stakeholders for consultation, and conducting an investors' forum.<br>Revil said infrastructure projects could also help solve the water scarcity.
The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) said that the country currently has enough water supply, but has been preparing mitigation plans to soften the impact of the El Niño phenomenon.
LWUA Administrator Vicente Homer Revil said they have issued directives to all water districts nationwide, instructing them to review and assess their water supply inventory to guarantee an ample reserve for the impending dry season.
“We have also been taking consultation measures, and planning out a [water] information drive… We want to talk more with the local government units (LGUs), educational systems, and social civic organizations,” Revil said during a television interview.
“We will conduct a meeting with the stakeholders and water districts in the coming months to discuss the challenges in the water supply because we should really be prepared until the month of May,” he added.
Revil also stated that the administration ordered the districts to address the non-revenue water or water losses to retain or minimize the impact by no more than 20 percent.
“If necessary, we can provide necessary water rations. But we have enough water supply, but we’re preparing for El Nino,” he reassured.
When asked about this year’s plans, Revil shared that more infrastructure projects could solve the water scarcity and coincide with the economic agenda.
“We’re going to have 135 water sources through irrigation dams for multipurpose use like household, domestic, commercial use,” he said. “We’re also planning potential floating solar systems.”
In February, the LWUA will conduct an investors’ forum for the development of the water sector, which aims to benefit the agriculture and energy groups as well.
Meanwhile, he lauded President Marcos for keeping an eye out on the water utilities sector.
Last year, Revil showcased the Patubig sa Buong Bayan sa Mamamayan (PBBM) program, a series of projects that aim to solve the water crisis in the country by expanding service coverage and reviving inactive water districts.
Under the program, there were P1 billion worth of projects implemented, with 22.3 million Filipinos served by their local water districts.
The LWUA administrator also said there is still an existing problem with salination, especially within areas that are on islands or nearby seas.
“We will need to reach other areas to build the right connection, especially with the rising population,” he added.