Adapting to the Drought: Communities Embrace Water Conservation Amid Super El Niño
As the ominous shadows of Super El Niño loom over us, many businesses in water-heavy sectors are making meaningful changes to navigate this challenging season. They’re opting for crops that demand less water, a step towards sustainability and adaptability in a world that is increasingly unpredictable.
In a poignant report from “24 Oras,” presented by Bernadette Reyes, we meet Ysrael and Romalyn Dantay, resort farm owners who are leading the charge towards water conservation. The couple has transformed their farming practices—instead of growing thirsty leafy vegetables, they’ve pivoted to drought-resistant plants. But that’s not all; they’ve also introduced rainwater harvesting measures to ensure they make the most of nature’s gifts.
Romalyn shares their challenges, stating, “We experienced fast evaporation in our swimming pool, requiring us to refill it daily. Now, while rainfall is still frequent, we are already harvesting rainwater for future use.” Her words resonate deeply, painting a picture of resourcefulness and hope.
The National Water Resources Board (NWRB) echoes these sentiments. As the situation intensifies, they remind us of the Water Code, which prioritizes domestic use and agricultural irrigation over recreational water use, such as that of resorts and golf courses. NWRB Executive Director Sevillo David emphasizes the importance of reducing water requirements. “As much as possible, they should recycle. Golf course operators should consider rainwater harvesting,” he says, urging everyone to be part of the solution.
Meanwhile, families in Metro Manila are taking matters into their own hands. With the threat of water shortages, many are already collecting rainwater to avoid the long waits and competition for deliveries. Nora Pura, a local resident, reflects on her past experiences, saying, “We experienced the difficulty before—waiting for the truck to arrive and competing for water, right?” Her words highlight a communal struggle that many are familiar with.
The NWRB assures residents that water supply in Metro Manila remains a priority. “Once our farmers have planted, we need to sustain their crops, especially rice,” David adds with urgency, underlining that while domestic needs come first, there is a delicate balance to maintain for agriculture as well.
As authorities analyze the landscape and consider adjustments to existing protocols, one thing is clear: individual consumers and households will always be the priority. The resilience shown by communities like the Dantays and Puras serves as a beacon of hope in these trying times.
Together, through innovation and collective effort, we can weather the storm that Super El Niño brings, proving that even in the face of adversity, our resourcefulness can shine through.
