Extreme heat, lack of rain trigger water shortages in Albay

INQUIRER FILES

LIGAO CITY, ALBAY, Philippines — Prolonged extreme heat and the absence of rain have caused water shortages in several areas of Albay province, prompting local governments to conduct water rationing.

Mayor Fernando V. Gonzalez said in an interview with the Inquirer that the city government has been distributing water daily, particularly to upland communities.

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“The 55 barangays are experiencing water scarcity. Water pressure is no longer as strong as it was in previous months. To meet the needs of residents, we deliver water using our five water lorry trucks,” Gonzalez said.

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He added that water levels in irrigation systems have also declined, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures, including encouraging farmers to plant earlier than the usual cropping schedule to help ensure food security.

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“We don’t want to suffer, so we are making adjustments to avoid feeling the tremendous negative effects of possible El Niño phenomenon in the coming months,” Gonzalez said.

Neighboring towns, including Libon, Oas, Polangui, Guinobatan and Pio Duran, are also implementing water rationing as they face shortages caused by the dry conditions. /cb

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