Water supply in some parts of Metro Manila served by Maynilad Water Services Inc. are expected to experience interruptions due to the decreasing water level of Angat Dam. The water level of the dam has been decreasing due to lack of enough rain for several months. Thus, the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) is set to provide alternative water sources to alleviate the water shortage problem. NWRB has raised the allocation for Manila Water Services, Inc. and Maynilad Water Services, Inc. from 46 cubic meters per second (cms) to 48 cms and from 42 cms to 44 cms, respectively, from the Angat-Ipo-La Mesa water system in order to augment the supply. Manila Water, likewise, assures that there will be no service interruptions as it sources its water from other sources, including Laguna Lake, the Cardona Water Treatment Plant, and deep wells. However, residents of some areas served by Maynilad are likely to be affected by the water shortage.
Maynilad, for its part, has announced the water interruption schedules for customers in various parts of its service areas. The interruption period ranges from 10 hours to as long as 23 hours due to the limited supply. The utility company, however, advises its customers to store enough water for the duration of the interruption period. Maynilad also asks its customers to use water wisely and avoid unnecessary water use.
Meanwhile, the NWRB is working on other measures to address the water shortage problem in Metro Manila. Among these is to fast-track the construction of the Kaliwa Dam project, which will supply additional water to Metro Manila and nearby provinces. However, this project faces opposition from some groups who question its environmental and social impact. Another measure is to tap other sources of water, such as the Wawa Dam in Rizal province, which could provide an additional 80 million liters of water per day.
The issue on water supply shortage in Metro Manila is not new. The problem has been recurring in recent years, especially during the dry season when the demand for water exceeds the supply. Various factors contribute to the problem, such as the increasing population, the unreliable supply from Angat Dam, and the inadequate infrastructure for water supply and distribution. The government has been addressing the problem by implementing measures to improve the water supply infrastructure and develop alternative sources of water. However, the problem has persisted, highlighting the need for a long-term solution that would ensure a sustainable supply of water for Metro Manila and nearby areas.
