In the light of a warning issued by the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration that Angat Dam, the main water source of Metro Manila, could be 40 meters below its normal water elevation by the end of April, Albay Rep. and chairman of the House ways and means committee urged presidential candidates to include in their platforms of government plans with regards to the water supply problems that the country is likely to face in the coming years.
“In my view, I am convinced that annual water shortfalls in Metro Manila will be the new normal unless we do something. It will also be the new normal in emerging cities within a decade,” Salceda said, recalling proposals for a department of water resources.
Aside from warning that climate change will exacerbate “reservoir or dam-based water sources,” Salceda also asked the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System to ensure that “the utilities invest in adequate water conservation capex (capital expenditure), so we reduce wasteage and leakages.”
“The next President will really have to commit to a national policy on conserving water resources. This includes a framework for regulating water use, proper management and recycling of sewage, a plan for irrigation, and exploring new sources and technologies for water supply,” the reelectionist congressman reiterated.
Annual water crises have no longer become a surprise for Filipinos, especially those living in urbanized areas. While the situation in Metro Manila is the most urgent, it is a concern that other emerging and developing cities such as those in Metro Bacolod will also have to prepare for. A national policy or a department of water resources that can provide the necessary guidance and enforcement is becoming a necessity in the face of climate change is resulting in additional stresses on national and municipal water supplies.
It has become clear in recent years how water is a critical resource that needs to be managed properly. Filipinos may have gotten away with not giving it the attention it deserves so far, but we risk facing a future where water supply becomes a constant problem if we do not act now to secure and conserve the country’s water resources.*
