Angat Dam (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO)
MANILA, Philippines — Valenzuela City 2nd District Representative Eric Martinez has encouraged the public and the national government to prioritize preparedness and long-term solutions after Angat Dam’s water level dropped below the minimum operating level.
Martinez issued the statement after the state weather bureau reported that the water level of Angat Dam, which supplies 97 percent of Metro Manila’s water needs, has fallen below 180 meters.
He said that this should serve as a wake-up call to both public and relevant authorities.
“A waterless NCR (National Capital Region) will hamper economic activity; our actions should be clear, definitive, and quick. We must face this challenge head-on and strive for long-term solutions that go beyond temporary measures,” he said on Sunday.
Martinez also highlighted the need for locals “to collectively conserve water, implement water-saving practices, and explore alternative sources to ensure sustainability.”
He also said that he would work closely with concerned agencies to develop an action plan to tackle the challenges posed by the impending water shortage.
Earlier Sunday, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Water Resources Management Office (DENR-WRMO) had already expanded its water conservation directive coverage to residents of Metro Manila and nearby provinces in preparation for the El Niño phenomenon.
Last July 7, DENR also issued its water conservation guidelines for government agencies under Malacañang’s Memorandum Circular No. 22, which requires WRMO to track other department’s progress in water conservation by analyzing their monthly water consumption.