The Department of Education (DepEd) is coordinating with water service providers to ensure an adequate and continuous water supply in schools amid the anticipated effects of a “Very Strong” El Niño.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said Maynilad had assured the department that water supply would remain stable, as water levels in major dams were currently within safe levels.
“They reassured us that the dams are at the proper levels. However, there are times during the year when bad weather causes water levels to drop to danger levels, and service has nearly been suspended. But we are still far from that situation at present,” Angara said.
Maynilad has also provided water conservation tips and learning materials, which DepEd is translating into Filipino and other languages to make them easier for students nationwide to understand.
“We already have these materials. Yesterday, we met with Maynilad. They provided us with tips and literature for distribution to schools. However, the materials are in English, so we are having them translated for nationwide distribution,” Angara also said.
DepEd is also implementing proper water storage practices, directing schools to keep stored water in sealed and covered containers to prevent mosquitoes and other insects from breeding.
The measures aim to prepare schools for the possible severe effects of El Niño and help ensure that students and school personnel have access to sufficient water.