Puerto Galera asks Marcos to address water crisis

CALAPAN CITY, ORIENTAL MINDORO, Philippines — The municipal government of Puerto Galera has appealed to President Marcos for urgent intervention to address the town’s worsening water crisis, warning that the prolonged shortage threatens both the local tourism industry and the welfare of residents.

According to the Puerto Galera Public Information Office (PIO), Mayor Robinhood Ylagan and Vice Mayor Rocky Ilagan said immediate national government intervention is needed to resolve the water shortage that has gripped the town this year.

Among the local government’s key requests are the upgrading of the town’s water distribution system and treatment facilities to ensure a stable supply of safe water.

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The municipal government first sought national government assistance in 2023 to rehabilitate Puerto Galera’s water system.

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READ: Puerto Galera under state of calamity over severe water shortage

As part of its long-term response, the town has partnered with experts from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and a private group to develop a comprehensive water master plan, including the identification of alternative water sources.

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Puerto Galera currently relies mainly on natural springs and surface water flowing from Mount Halcon, the PIO said.

READ: Deep well rehab, upgrade pushed to fix Puerto Galera water supply

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The municipal council recently approved Resolution No. 06-198-2026, placing the entire municipality under a state of calamity due to severe water scarcity affecting thousands of residents, tourists and business establishments.

The resolution followed an assessment by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, which confirmed a persistent shortage. —IRE JOE V.C. LAURENTE

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