Filipinos urged to conserve water as ‘Super El Niño’ threatens supply in coming months

MANILA — Filipinos are continuously being urged to conserve water as the country braces for the effects of a strong El Niño, which could bring reduced rainfall and water shortages toward the end of 2026 and into the first months of 2027.

While water levels in dams monitored by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) remain adequate, authorities warn that the public should start preparing for the possibility of prolonged dry conditions.

Some dams have reached levels close to their spilling thresholds, but this does not guarantee sufficient water supply in the months ahead, particularly if rainfall declines as forecast.

PAGASA expects the effects of El Niño to intensify toward the end of the year, with the phenomenon potentially peaking by December and its impacts extending into early 2027.

Speaking to ABS-CBN News, PAGASA senior weather specialist Rosalie Pagulayan said households can take practical steps to conserve water even before they begin experiencing reduced water pressure.

These include reusing water from laundry for cleaning yards and other activities, provided the water is safe for its intended use.

Pagulayan also encouraged people to avoid leaving faucets running while brushing their teeth and to use a glass instead.

The measures may seem small, but adopting water-saving habits across households and communities can help reduce unnecessary consumption as the country prepares for drier conditions.

For some Filipinos, preparing for possible water shortages has already become part of their daily routine.

Olivia Gregorio recently spent nearly P4,000 on water drums from a store in Quezon City after experiencing nightly water interruptions in her neighborhood. 

With 11 people relying on the water supply in their household, she said storing water has become essential, particularly with drought conditions expected in the coming months.

“Napakahirap mawalan ng tubig kasi hindi mo alam kung saan ka mag-iigib,” Gregorio said.

She added that more people are buying water drums despite their rising prices, as households try to prepare for potential shortages.

Vendors are also seeing increased demand for water storage containers as residents prepare for the possible effects of El Niño.

Vic Garcia, a water container vendor in Quezon City, said drums that previously attracted little interest are now selling more quickly.

He said some containers that used to sell for around P900 to P1,000 now cost more than a thousand pesos.

The increase reflects growing demand as households seek ways to store water during supply interruptions.

Water concessionaires Maynilad and Manila Water said they have diversified their sources to reduce dependence on the Angat-Ipo-La Mesa water system.

Maynilad said it has expanded its water sources to include Laguna Lake, deep wells, modular treatment plants and New Water facilities.

Based on treatment capacity, Angat Dam now accounts for about 83 percent of Maynilad’s water supply capacity, compared with 100 percent historically, the company said.

Manila Water, meanwhile, said it has developed additional sources from Laguna Lake and the Wawa-Antipolo water system.

The company said diversifying its water sources gives it greater flexibility in managing risks associated with prolonged dry periods, declining reservoir levels and increasing customer demand.

These alternative sources are expected to help the concessionaires manage their operations, although actual supply conditions will depend on water availability and demand.

Malacañang has directed government agencies to prepare for the threat of El Niño, as the country anticipates possible consequences for water availability and other sectors affected by prolonged dry conditions.

Despite currently adequate dam levels and efforts to diversify water sources, the coming months will be critical in determining how well the country can manage potential water shortages.

Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of responsible water consumption, particularly as rainfall patterns change.