• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Although they admitted that the drought affected the water level in their respective local government units, Bago City Mayor Nicholas Yulo and La Carlota City Rex Jalandoon declared in separate media interviews that there is no water shortage in their cities.
Yulo said they noted a reduction in level of water in rivers, and lack of adequate supply of water in end canals.
On the other hand, Jalandoon said he was informed by the local water district that the drought is already affecting their water supply.
With this development, Jalandoon said that the La Carlota City government will have a water summit on April 2, to determine the real status of the city’s domestic and drinking water sources.
The event is also aimed at raising awareness on the impact of climatic patterns, such as El Niño and La Niña, to the water supply, and inform the public of the water supply situation of La Carlota City during these climatic patterns, and the current programs and strategic plans of the La Carlota Water District (CARWATER) to counter the adverse effects.
While water levels in rivers are reducing, Yulo said there is no reduction in water supply, as far as irrigation is concerned.
He also reported that they are now replacing water pipes, in anticipation of increased demand for potable water, as the population of Bago City is also increasing.*
