File photo of MP Amir Mawallil. (Image from his FB page)
MANILA, Philippines – A bill has been filed before the Bangsamoro Parliament requiring the construction of reservoirs in all infrastructure projects in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The measure is titled ‘Bangsamoro Rainwater Harvesting Facility Act of 2023’ authored by Member of the Parliament Amilbahar Mawallil.
Mawallil said it aims to provide irrigation to farmlands, especially during summer.
“The region faces many challenges relating to water scarcity and accessibility due to its reliance on rain-fed agriculture that has been impaired by erratic rainfall patterns and climate change impacts,” he said.
The bill mandates builders to include rainwater reservoirs in the development plans.
Meanwhile, existing infrastructure will have a period of three years after the approval of the measure to install the facilities.
“The captured rainwater can supplement the existing water sources, reducing dependence on groundwater and surface water, especially during dry periods,” the document stated.
In May, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration raised the El Niño alert.
This may bring below-average rainfalls in some parts of the country.
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