THE local government of Puerto Galera has resorted to water rationing in some barangays due to a water shortage. (PIO Puerto Galera FB)
The municipal government of Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro has urged President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. help solve the water crisis in the municipality that, if unresolved, will bring down the local tourism industry and affect the welfare of residents.
Vice Mayor Rocky D. Ilagan, who echoed the appeal of Mayor Robinhood D. Ylagan, said he believes that the immediate involvement of Marcos will end the crisis that they are experiencing this year.
“This is an SOS call, we need an urgent help from the President,” Ilagan said in an interview.
He requested Marcos to upgrade water distribution infrastructure and treatment facilities to ensure reliable supply and improved quality.
Ilagan said they first sought government help in 2023 to rehabilitate the water system of Puerto Galera but no action was made since then.
Puerto Galera has tapped the expertise of water distribution network experts from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and a private group to formulate an efficient water master plan with emphasis on alternative water supply sources.
The town relies heavily on natural springs and surface water sources from Mount Halcon.
The Sangguniang Bayan of Puerto Galera recently passed SB Resolution No. 06-198-2026 declaring the whole town under a state of calamity due to severe water shortage that affected thousands of residents, tourists, and establishments.
The resolution followed an earlier resolution and assessment by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council that said Puerto Galera was experiencing a significant and continuing shortage of water supply affecting households, business establishments, tourism-related industries, public institutions, and other essential services.
Ilagan said the effects of El Nino have exacerbated the situation.