DENR ramps up water measures as El Niño tightens its grip

National

WITH El Niño raising the risk of prolonged dry spells and extreme heat, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is stepping up efforts to secure water supplies and protect the country’s forests, watersheds and vulnerable ecosystems.

The agency is expanding measures to build additional water sources, promote conservation, prevent forest fires and safeguard workers and communities from extreme heat as parts of the country face increased risks from prolonged dry conditions and reduced water availability.

“With the critical action window now upon us, every DENR unit must proactively execute climate adaptation and risk reduction protocols,” DENR chief Juan Miguel Cuna said in an Inquirer.net report.

Among the measures are the construction of small water impounding structures and rainwater harvesting systems to provide additional water supplies during periods of limited rainfall.

The DENR’s regional offices and attached agencies are also coordinating with local governments and other stakeholders on water conservation, watershed monitoring, forest-fire prevention, ecosystem protection and heat-safety measures.

In Central Luzon, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office-Pampanga and regional field units are conducting information campaigns in barangays and community colleges in Guagua and Lubao. Residents are being encouraged to use buckets instead of hoses, reuse greywater, repair leaks and harvest rainwater.

In Caraga, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau has advised mining companies and processing plants to manage water demand, check for leaks and harvest rainwater. The companies were also advised to establish cooling stations and early warning systems for extreme heat.

The bureau has also urged provincial governors to strengthen local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils and monitor critical watersheds.

In the Davao Region, meanwhile, the Environmental Management Bureau has strengthened health and safety measures for field personnel, including limiting high-exposure outdoor work from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., providing personal protective equipment and ensuring continuous hydration.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), for its part, assured the public that bottled water supplies remain sufficient and urged consumers not to hoard.

The agency said it would intensify price monitoring and continue coordinating with manufacturers and distributors to maintain steady supplies. It will also address complaints involving overpriced plastic drums, water containers and other related commodities.

The DTI reminded businesses and sellers not to take advantage of the situation through unjustified price increases and warned that violators could face penalties and sanctions under existing laws.(MyTVCebu)