A tightening water supply has pushed Cebu City officials to call for stronger conservation efforts as the dry season strains existing resources and limits available groundwater sources.
Mayor Nestor Archival said the city government is coordinating with the Metropolitan Cebu Water District to monitor supply levels and respond to possible shortages.
He noted that more than half of the city’s artesian wells are currently non-operational, prompting rehabilitation efforts.
Residents have been advised to reduce water consumption, fix household leaks, and adopt daily conservation practices to help manage demand.
Alongside conservation measures, the city is also studying alternative water sources, including the potential use of saltwater for firefighting operations.
The proposal involves tapping coastal areas and storing seawater for emergency response use, reducing pressure on potable water supplies.
Archival stressed that water conservation is essential during prolonged dry conditions and called on the public to participate in efforts to preserve available resources.
The city’s initiative comes as local authorities continue to assess long-term solutions to ensure water security amid climate-related stress on supply systems.
Last month, the state weather bureau issued an El Niño Alert, warning of a high likelihood of dry spells and droughts in parts of the country.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said ENSO-neutral conditions currently prevail over the tropical Pacific.
However, there is a 79% chance El Niño could develop between June and August 2026 and may persist into early 2027.
Photo courtesy of Cebu City News
Comments