DENR: Marcos admin ‘moving decisively’ in addressing global water crisis
MANILA, Philippines — Department of Environment and Resources (DENR) Secretary Antonia Loyzaga on Tuesday assured the public that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration remained “proactive” in addressing the looming global water crisis aggravated by climate change.
Loyzaga made the assurance in her speech at the United Nations 2023 Water Conference in New York, where she emphasized government measures in meeting head-on the challenges, specifically the dwindling water supply brought about by climate change.
“Today, more than ever, there is a critical need for nexus governance, climate, and disaster resilience, one that pursues a strategic balance between supply and consumption of water for health, food, energy, and environmental security,” she said.
“The Philippines is moving decisively in this direction. Our President has directed the creation of a Water Resource Management Office under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to achieve water security by integrating the functions of all agencies with water-related mandates,” the DENR chief said, noting the WRMO is “the first in the country’s history.”
According to the DENR secretary, the new water management agency will aid in the government’s plans and programs to provide universal access to safe, sufficient, affordable, and sustainable water supply, sanitation, and hygiene that will be completed by 2030.
She noted that achieving adequate and equitable access to safe drinking water and sanitation services is at the core of sustainable development.
Article continues after this advertisementThe official said the government also ensures that local government units are aligned with water-related policies and actions under the Philippine Development Plan.
Article continues after this advertisementThe Philippines was represented by the Permanent Mission to the UN, the DENR, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Finance (DOF), Manila Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) and Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA).
– Meralyn Melitante, Inquirer.net trainee
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