Mayor Abby underscores importance of Makati's response to natural disasters
By Hannah Nicol
Makati City Mayor Abby Binay on Wednesday, February 28, emphasized the importance of the city's preparedness in dealing with natural calamities, specifically the effects of the El Niño phenomenon.

"In facing these environmental challenges head-on, Makati is not just adapting, we are transforming," Binay said in her speech during the online conference focusing on the "Resilient Cities: Navigating Natural Disasters and Building Stronger Communities."
"We aim to set a benchmark for urban resilience, providing that even in the face of nature’s unpredictability, a city can thrive to innovate and lead by example," she added.
The mayor confirmed the city's plan to purchase several electric motorcycles in 2024.
"By reducing our dependence on fossil fuels, we will not (only) address the root cause of climate change but also foster a healthier, more sustainable environment for our citizens," she said.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), on February 27 cautioned the public that more areas in Luzon may experience "warmer than usual" temperatures in the coming months due to El Niño.
READ:
https://mb.com.ph/2024/2/27/brace-for-warmer-days-in-the-coming-months-pagasa-warns
Binay said El Niño adds another layer of complexity to their environmental management efforts as it has not only intensified urban heat but also put a strain on water resources and agricultural productivity, "affecting both urban and rural livelihood."
In response to this, the mayor vowed to double the city's commitment to sustainability and resilience in dealing with this natural phenomenon.
This involves enhancing urban infrastructure to better manage water resources, implementing more comprehensive flood control measures, and expanding green spaces to mitigate the heat island effect.
Task Force ENSO
On May 22, 2023, the city established the "Task Force ENSO" (El Niño Southern Oscillation).
READ:
https://mb.com.ph/2023/5/21/makati-city-launches-task-force-enso-to-respond-to-el-nino
This initiative will play a crucial role in coordinating with various entities to ensure a steady supply of water and electricity in Makati during the El Niño season.
"We have engaged with our water and electricity providers to discuss the contingency plan and have directed city departments responsible for social service and emergency responses to prepare for any crisis," Binay said.
Moreover, regarding the city's water and electricity supply, Binay explained the city's plan to deal with possible interruptions.
"Water providers which are Manila Water and Maynilad have outlined measures to maintain water supply by tapping alternative sources and enhancing their treatment plans. They are also proactively repairing leaks and, if necessary, will deploy water tankers to residential areas to ensure access to clean water," she said.
"On the electricity front, Meralco indicated that rotational brownouts may be considered as the last resort should the power supply dwindles," she added.