PB asks LGUs to come up with water saving programs

The Provincial Board is asking local government units in the province to come up with water conservation programs amid below normal rainfall due to the weak El Niño phenomenon.

Last week, the Board passed a resolution sponsored by Board Member Arleigh Sitoy on this effect, taking note of the water problems aired by some town officials during a recent water summit organized by Capitol.

Initial assessment presented by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office during the summit showed that water sources in some areas in San Fernando, Alegria, Malabuyoc, Ginatilan, Madridejos in Bantayan Island, and the towns in Camotes Island are depleting.

Also during the summit, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration reported that despite the prevailing El Niño, rain may still be expected by mid-June, which the public should take advantage of by storing water.

The Board also requested the LGUs to conduct further assessment on the impact of El Niño and monitor areas in their jurisdiction that experience problems on water.

“Such alarming development needs to be addressed or at least its effect should be minimized for the benefit of the public with the help of their local government units,” part of the resolution reads.

“This august body finds it necessary to request LGUs to spearhead water conservation programs which would help offset the effect of the existing calamity which may have affected our water supply,” it reads.

During its regular session today, the Board will deliberate on whether or not to place the whole province under a state of calamity.

As of last week, five LGUs have declared a state of calamity because of the waning water supply.

Asturias town in northwestern Cebu may also declare the same today. Last week, the town’s disaster risk reduction and management council recommended the same to the town Council.

The town earlier reported that the brunt of El Niño has affected at least 150 corn farmers whose plantations have manifested wilting leaves. The farmers affected are from 16 barangays in Asturias.