Malacañang reassures the public that domestic water supplies remain sufficient to meet national demands during the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, while issuing a stern warning against hoarding and speculative resource manipulation.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto stated during a press briefing that government agencies have implemented proactive management measures to safeguard major reservoirs, including Angat Dam, ensuring uninterrupted distribution for urban centers and agricultural areas.
”We have sufficient water supply to last through the dry spell,” Recto said. ”Our agencies are working double time to manage our water resources efficiently, so there is no reason for public panic or unnecessary stockpiling.”
Addressing reports of artificial scarcity and unauthorized water redirection in certain provinces, the executive branch warned that government task forces will strictly enforce regulations against hoarding and illegal extraction.
”We will not hesitate to go after individuals or commercial entities who hoard water or exploit this weather condition for personal gain,” Recto added. ”The government will apply the full force of the law to protect consumers and ensure equitable distribution.”
The Inter-Agency Task Force on El Niño continues to coordinate with the National Water Resources Board (NWRB), local government units, and private water concessionaires to optimize irrigation schedules, monitor dam levels, and deploy mobile water treatment units to vulnerable communities.