Use water wisely, MWSS urges public

The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) has appealed to consumers to use water wisely and support efforts to ensure ample water supply amid the onset of the El Niño phenomenon.

This year may be the warmest year in record because of El Niño, which is expected to adversely affect at least 22 provinces, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services (Pagasa).

Enough water

While there is enough water supply for its consumers, MWSS administrator Reynaldo Velasco urged the public to save water and help prevent a water shortage as El Niño has varying impacts such as delayed onset of the rainy season.

“Since we primarily source our water from Angat-Ipo-La Mesa water system, we have to do our share to help lessen the effect of El Niño not only on our need for water in our households and industries but also in agriculture,” Velasco said.

As a rule, discharge for potable water supply becomes the priority during drought, reducing water releases for agricultural irrigation and power generation.

Water from Angat passes through Ipo Dam before it is released to La Mesa Dam.

The water level at La Mesa has fallen below normal level, prompting calls for water conservation from concerned sectors to maintain its availability.