KNOW YOUR WATER An Educational Module on Saving Earth's Water (CAMANAVA Edition)
KNOW YOUR WATER: An Educational Module on Saving Earth’s Water Cover Page
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. WATER AS A BASIC HUMAN RIGHT
International Declarations
Philippine Laws
Importance of Upholding
Water Safety 4
B. THIRSTING EARTH: THE ISSUE OF WATER SCARCITY
Definition of Water Scarcity
Factors Affecting Water Scarcity
Impacts of Water Scarcity
Some Bodies of Water in CAMANAVA
Water Issues in the Context of CAMANAVA, Philippines 7
C. WATER, WATER, WHERE ARE YOU?
Definition of Water Availability
Definition of Water Access
Natural Sources of Freshwater
Water Purification Methods
Water Contaminants
Infrastructures for Water Acc
What to do in face of Water I Your Area
Water-saving Techniques
Keeping Water Safe for Consumption
D. THE WALK TOWARDS WATER EQUITY
21
22 REFERENCES
W A T E R A S A B A S I C H U M A N R I G H T
RIGHT? RIGHT? WATER’S A RIGHT,
The UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS says WATER and SANITATION are fundamental human rights!
This recognition was formalized by the United Nations General Assembly on July 28, 2010, through Resolution 64/292 This resolution urges States and international organizations to allocate financial resources, aid capacity-building, and facilitate technology transfer, particularly to developing nations, to ensure the provision of safe, clean, accessible, and affordable drinking water and sanitation for all.
IN NOVEMBER 2022, the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights adopted General Comment No. 15, which emphasizes the indispensable nature of the human right to water for maintaining human dignity.
Article I.1 of this comment asserts that access to water is a fundamental prerequisite for the fulfillment of other human rights.
SDG6
2
The Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) aims to "ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all" as part of the United Nations' broader agenda for sustainable development
WHAT DOES THE PHILIPPINE LAW SAY ABOUT WATER?
1
PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1067, s. 1976
a legislative instrument titled "A Decree Instituting A Water Code, Thereby Revising And Consolidating The Laws Governing The Ownership, Appropriation, Utilization, Exploitation, Development, Conservation And Protection Of Water Resources "
RA 9275 - THE PHILIPPINE CLEAN WATER ACT
aims to protect the country’s water bodies from pollution from land-based sources (industries and commercial establishments, agriculture and community/household activities).
3
PHILIPPINE WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION MASTER PLAN (PWSSMP)
The 2021 National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) introduced the Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan (PWSSMP), which serves as the blueprint to achieve universal access to safe, sufficient, affordable, and sustainable water supply, hygiene, and sanitation by 2030
PWSSMP
PHILIPPINEWATER SUPPLYAND
SANITATIONMASTER PLAN
ACCESS THE PWSSMP HERE https://neda gov ph/pwssmp
View the list of programs and projects, as well as financial plans of the National Action Plan for Water Conservation.
t?" published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), it is emphasized that upholding water safety is important for several reasons:
Ensuring the fulfillment of quality and quantity requirements of water to meet fundamental human needs
Highlighting the correlation between water-related diseases and water quality as a means to safeguard public health.
Empowering governments to play a vital role in guaranteeing access to water that meets adequate quality and quantity standards
Upholding human rights principles by recognizing access to safe water as a fundamental human right essential for dignity, wellbeing, and life itself
T H I R S T I N G E A R T H : T H E I S S U E O F W A T E R S C A R C I T Y
THIRSTING EARTH: THE ISSUE OF WATER SCARCITY
When the well is dry, we know the worth of water.
- Benjamin Franklin
refers to the condition where there is insufficient access to clean, safe, and reliable water for drinking, sanitation, agriculture, and other uses
IN THE PHILIPPINES, OUT OF THE POPULATION OF 113 MILLION PEOPLE, of households lack access to a safely managed water supply of households lack safe sanitation
FACTORS AFFECTING WATER SCARCITY
EXCESSIVE CONSUMPTION
POOR INFRASTRUCTURE
POLLUTION
CLIMATE CHANGE
IMPACTS
HUMAN HEALTH
Waterborne diseases; like Cholera & Typhoid
Vector-borne diseases; like Malaria & Dengue fever
Malnutrition & Dehydration
POPULATION GROWTH
URBANIZATION
AGRICULTURE
Crop yield reduction
Increased risk of crop failure
Soil degradation and desertification
Farmers forced to switch to less waterintensive crops
ENVIRONMENT
Ecosystem degradation
Habitat loss
Water quality decline
Altered hydrological cycles
Loss of biodiversity
IN THE CONTEXT OF CAMANAVA, PHILIPPINES
Significant differences in water availability between urban and rural areas still exist in the Philippines, with rural residents frequently encountering more difficulties. As of 2017, 91.8% of people in cities had access to basic drinking water services, while just 74.8% of people in rural areas had the same, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. However, even urban centers are not exempt from water security concerns The CAMANAVA area (otherwise known as NCR District 3) comprising Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela faces frequent flooding, land subsidence due to excessive groundwater extraction, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure, all of which contribute to water scarcity and contamination.
SomeWaterBodiesinCAMANAVA...
TULLAHAN RIVER
Flows through Valenzuela, Malabon, and Navotas It serves as a major drainage system but suffers from severe pollution due to industrial waste, sewage, and garbage Heavy siltation worsens flooding in surrounding areas, especially during the rainy season
MAYSILO RIVER
Runs through Malabon, it is heavily polluted with household and commercial waste, contributing to clogged waterways and water stagnation During high tides and storms, its shallow channels worsen flooding in nearby communities Efforts to rehabilitate the river are ongoing but remain a challenge
MAYPAJO CREEK
A drainage outlet through Caloocan, highly polluted due to solid waste accumulation, industrial runoff, and improper sewage disposal Water stagnation and foul odors are common, posing health risks to nearby residents. Informal settlements along its banks contribute to waste buildup, making cleanup efforts difficult
MANILA BAY
Serving as the western boundary of Navotas and Malabon, it is a hub for trade, fishing, and tourism It suffers from extreme pollution due to untreated wastewater, plastic waste, and industrial discharge Land reclamation, rising sea levels, and habitat destruction further threaten its ecosystems. Rehabilitation programs aim to clean the bay and restore marine biodiversity
PHOTO BY MAYNILAD
The Delayed Construction of the CAMANA Water Reclamation Facility in Caloocan
Every day, communities in Caloocan, Malabon, and Navotas deal with the consequences of untreated wastewater polluted rivers, unbearable odors, and constant flooding made worse by clogged drainage systems. With no proper sewage treatment in place, households and businesses have little choice but to release waste directly into waterways like the Tullahan River and Maypajo Creek. For many residents, this isn’t just an environmental issue it’s a daily reality that affects their health, livelihoods, and safety, especially during heavy rains when streets turn into filthy, contaminated floods.
The CAMANA Water Reclamation Facility in Maypajo, Caloocan, was designed to change this. Once completed, it will be the country’s largest sewage treatment plant, capable of processing 205 million liters of wastewater every day, benefiting 1 2 million residents It promises cleaner rivers, reduced flooding, and better sanitation for the people who need it most. But delays in construction mean these communities remain stuck with unsafe water conditions a little longer If finished on time, it could mark a turning point for water quality in CAMANAVA. Until then, residents continue to wait, hoping for the day when polluted floodwaters and sewage-filled streets become a thing of the past
Flooding in Malabon
Every time heavy rains pour, Malabon turns into a city of rising waters. Streets disappear under murky floods, trapping residents in their homes and making daily life a struggle. For many, knee-deep, or even chest-deep flooding isn’t just a seasonal inconvenience; it’s an expected part of living in one of Metro Manila’s lowest-lying areas. The mix of high tides, clogged drainage systems, and overflowing rivers like the Tullahan and Maysilo leaves little room for the water to go. In August 2023, during the onslaught of Typhoon Egay, parts of Barangay Panghulo and Tonsuya were submerged for days, forcing families to evacuate and leaving many stranded. Residents waded through dirty, debris-filled floods just to get to work or school, while businesses in Malabon Public Market were forced to close as floodwaters seeped into stalls.
Despite ongoing flood control projects, the problem persists. Pumping stations in areas like Barangay Potrero work overtime, but they can only do so much when waterways remain polluted and silted. In 2022, the DPWH and MMDA launched dredging operations along the MalabonTullahan River, yet informal settlements and garbage dumping continue to worsen the situation Climate change, land subsidence, and rapid urbanization have only made things worse. Long-term solutions like improved drainage, proper waste management, and sustainable urban planning are needed more than ever. Until then, Malabon residents continue to face the reality of living in a city where the floods always return, bringing with them the same struggles, year after year.
PHOTO BY AFP
Navotas Submerged
In Navotas, flooding is more than just a seasonal problem it’s a way of life As a coastal city sitting at or even below sea level in some areas, Navotas experiences frequent floods caused by a combination of high tides, monsoon rains, and poor drainage. During heavy storms, streets in barangays like Tangos, Tanza, and San Roque quickly become submerged, making it nearly impossible for residents to leave their homes In July 2023, during the impact of the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat), floodwaters in Barangay Daanghari and North Bay Boulevard South reached waist level, forcing families to evacuate and disrupting businesses for days
Even on days without heavy rain, flooding persists due to rising sea levels and land subsidence. Many areas experience “sunny day floods” where seawater spills over coastal defenses and inundates streets, especially in communities near Manila Bay. Government efforts, like the construction of seawalls and pumping stations, have helped, but they are often overwhelmed, and flooding remains a constant struggle The Navotas Coastal Dike Project, meant to protect the city from storm surges, has seen delays, leaving many communities vulnerable. Until larger flood control measures and climate resilience projects are fully realized, residents continue to live with the uncertainty of the next flood whether from the sky, the sea, or both.
PHOTO BY MANILA BULLETIN
Valenzuela is Sinking & Pollution is Everywhere
VValenzuela is sinking literally. Over the years, land subsidence, or the gradual sinking of the ground, has become a growing concern in the city With its location near Manila Bay and soft, clay-like soil, Valenzuela is highly susceptible to this phenomenon, which is made worse by excessive groundwater extraction. Some areas, particularly in barangays near the Tullahan River and Polo, have reportedly sunk by several centimeters over the past decades. This has led to worsening floods, with water taking longer to recede even after the rains stop In August 2023, during Typhoon Egay, residents of Barangay Arkong Bato and Barangay Coloong experienced prolonged flooding, with some streets remaining submerged for days. Experts warn that if land subsidence continues unchecked, more areas could become permanently waterlogged, similar to what has happened in parts of Malabon and Navotas
Beyond flooding, Valenzuela also struggles with water pollution and waste mismanagement. As the country’s hub for plastics manufacturing, the city produces a significant amount of plastic waste Improper disposal leads to clogged drainage systems and polluted waterways, especially in the Tullahan River, which carries tons of plastic and industrial waste into Manila Bay. Factories and small-scale manufacturers along the riverbanks contribute to contamination, releasing untreated wastewater directly into the river. Despite efforts like the Tullahan River Dredging Project and local ordinances promoting proper waste disposal, pollution remains a persistent issue.
PHOTO BY VALENZUELA CITY
W A T E R , W A T E R , W H E R E A R E Y O U ?
When there is WATER SCARCITY, there can also be:
WATER AVAILABILITY
refers to the presence of an adequate quantity of water in a given area or region, typically measured in terms of the volume of water resources such as rivers, lakes, groundwater, and reservoirs It takes into account factors such as precipitation, surface runoff, groundwater recharge, and water storage capacity Water availability is crucial for supporting various human activities, including agriculture, industry, domestic use, and ecosystem functioning.
WATER ACCESS
refers to the ability of individuals and communities to obtain and utilize water for their daily needs It encompasses physical access to water sources, such as wells, taps, or water distribution networks, as well as factors like affordability, reliability, and quality of water supply.
“Where can I find fresh water?”
Surface Water:
Rivers - flowing bodies of water that originate from various sources such as rainfall, snowmelt, and springs
Lakes - large bodies of water that are usually enclosed by land and are replenished by precipitation, runoff, and groundwater.
Reservoirs - artificial lakes created by damming rivers to store water for various purposes such as drinking, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation. Ponds - small bodies of standing water, often man-made, that can serve as sources of edible water in certain contexts.
Groundwater:
Aquifers - underground layers of permeable rock or sediment that contain water and can be tapped for drinking purposes through wells or springs
Wells - deep holes drilled or dug into the ground to access groundwater, which may be naturally occurring or artificially recharged.
“Where can I find fresh water?”
Page 2
Rainwater
Rainwater Harvestingcollection of rainwater from roofs, surfaces, or catchment areas for direct consumption or storage in tanks or cisterns.
Springs
Natural Springs - locations where groundwater flows to the surface naturally, often originating from underground aquifers, and can be accessed for drinking water.
Although natural sources may seem clean, drinking water directly from these sources without treatment is not recommended due to potential contamination. To ensure the safety of water, it must undergo sterilization and purification using various treatment methods;
WATER PURIFICATION METHODS
BOILING
Boiling water is one of the most effective methods for sterilizing it and killing harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Bring the water to a rolling boil for at least one minute (or longer at higher altitudes) to ensure thorough sterilization
Wow! So many sources of water. Does that mean I can drink rainwater directly?
FILTRATION
FILTRATION
Filtration systems, such as portable water filters or household water filtration devices, can effectively remove sediment, debris, and some microorganisms from water. Look for filters that are certified to remove specific contaminants and meet safety standards.
CHEMICAL TREATMENT
Chemical disinfectants, such as chlorine bleach or iodine tablets, can be used to kill pathogens in water Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and allow sufficient contact time for the chemicals to work effectively
ULTRAVIOLET (UV) STERILIZATION
UV sterilization devices use ultraviolet light to destroy the DNA of microorganisms, rendering them harmless. UV sterilizers are often used in conjunction with other treatment methods for comprehensive water purification
DISTILLATION
Distillation involves heating water to create steam, which is then condensed back into liquid form. This process effectively removes contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, and chemicals, leaving behind pure, distilled water.
OZONATION
Ozone gas is bubbled through water to kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. It is a powerful disinfectant that effectively sterilizes water and breaks down organic compounds, leaving no residual taste or odor.
CERAMIC FILTERS
Ceramic water filters consist of porous ceramic material that traps pathogens as water passes through. These filters are effective at removing bacteria, protozoa, and sediment, producing clean and safe drinking water
WHATGETS THEM CONTAMINATED INTHEFIRST PLACE, ANYWAY?
WATER CONTAMINANTS
Physical contaminants
Contaminants that impact the physical appearance or other physical properties of water
Examples include sediment or organic material suspended in the water of lakes, rivers and streams from soil erosion
Chemical contaminants
Naturally or man-made elements or compounds. Examples include nitrogen, bleach, salts, pesticides, metals, toxins produced by bacteria, and human or animal drugs
Microbiological contaminants
living contaminants, microbes, or organisms found in water. Examples include bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and parasites.
Radiological contaminants
Contaminants that are chemical elements with an unbalanced number of protons and neutrons which results in the emission of ionizing radiation. Examples include cesium, plutonium and uranium.
WATER, WATER, WHERE ARE YOU?
WHAT INFRASTRUCTURE PROVIDES WATER ACCESS?
INFRASTRUCTURES FOR WATER ACCESS
WATER TREATMENT PLANTS
facilities that treat raw water from natural sources to make it safe for consumption by removing contaminants and pathogens.
PIPELINES
networks of pipes that transport treated water from treatment plants to distribution points such as households, businesses, and public facilities
WATER STORAGE TANKS
reservoirs or tanks that store treated water for distribution
RAINWATER HARVESTS
infrastructure that collects rainwater from rooftops and other surfaces for storage and later use in non-potable applications such as irrigation and toilet flushing
WATER WELLS
underground structures that access groundwater for drinking and other purposes
WATER, WATER, WHERE ARE YOU?
KABAYAN, WATER ALERT IN CAMANAVA REGION!
�� Experiencing water issues? Here’s what to do!
�� HOTLINES
�� Maynilad Water Services
☎ 1626 (24/7 Customer Service)
�� Text Hotline: 0998-8641446
�� Email: [email protected]
�� Facebook/Twitter: @Maynilad
�� MWSS Regulatory Office (For escalations)
�� Visit: mwss.gov.ph
�� WHERE TO GET WATER
�� Maynilad Water Tankers & Distribution Points
�� Check Maynilad’s social media for real-time updates!
�� Nearby Water Refilling Stations
✔ Aquabest
✔ Crystal Clear
✔
VitaSpring Water
✔ Crystal Oasis Water
�� TAKE ACTION NOW!
✅ Save these hotlines ��
✅ Report leaks, low pressure, or no water ASAP ��
✅ Stock up on clean water during scheduled interruptions ��
✅ Spread the word share this with your community! ��
�� Every drop counts stay informed, stay prepared! ��
Quick N’ Easy Water-saving Techniques
Regularly check for and repair leaks in faucets, toilets, and pipes to prevent water waste. Take shorter showers and consider turning off the water while lathering or shampooing. Turn off the tap while brushing teeth, shaving, or washing dishes by hand
Wait until you have a full load before running the dishwasher or washing machine Invest in water-efficient appliances such as low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads.
Install rain barrels to collect rainwater for outdoor use, such as watering plants or washing cars.
Use a broom instead of a hose to clean driveways, sidewalks, and outdoor areas.
Water outdoor plants and lawns in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation, and use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to target roots directly
Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture in the soil and reduce the need for frequent watering.
Choose drought-resistant plants and landscaping designs that require less water, reducing the need for irrigation.
REPAIR LEAKS IN PIPES
TAKE SHORTER SHOWERS USE RAIN BARRELS
SAD NEWS...
Approximately 60% of all infant mortality worldwide is linked to water-related infectious and parasitic diseases
More than 3 million people die every year from diseases caused by unsafe water In developing countries 80% of illnesses and more than a third of deaths are a result of drinking contaminated water
Data by IUCN, 2024
That’s why protecting water resources is important
HOW TO KEEP WATER SAFE FOR CONSUMPTION
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Superhero Tips for Safe Water Protection
Reduce - By using only what we need and minimizing waste, we can help prevent harmful pollutants from entering our waterways. Simple actions like using eco-friendly products, conserving water at home, and reducing single-use plastics can make a big difference in preserving water quality
Reuse - By giving old items a new purpose, we can reduce the need for new resources and minimize the amount of waste that ends up in our water systems Repurposing items like containers, bags, and household items not only conserves resources but also reduces the demand for energy-intensive production processes that can contribute to water pollution
Recycle – By sorting and recycling materials like plastic, glass, and metal, we can conserve valuable resources and reduce the need for waterintensive manufacturing processes Recycling prevents harmful pollutants from seeping into water sources
THE WALK TOWARDS WATER EQUITY
Aworld where no child is thirsty is an impossible one if we rely solely on individual efforts to solve water issues. To address this problem, it necessitates collaborative efforts among various sectors, such as the government, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and different private sectors. By empowering communities to actively manage water resources through the implementation of sustainable practices and the development of
resilient infrastructure, we can work towards bridging the gap in access to clean and safe water. This involves initiatives such as supporting the establishment of water treatment facilities, efficient irrigation systems for our farms, and implementing rainwater harvesting techniques in waterstressed regions, particularly in provinces. As children, we can contribute to these causes by sharing educational campaigns and encouraging our peers to support organizations raising awareness for water equity Being a child does not limit us to raising our voices, especially in front of an apparent issue By informing the public about the importance of water conservation, highlighting the impacts of water inequality on vulnerable populations, and advocating for sustainable water management practices, we can create a collective commitment to addressing water challenges Not only can we mobilize support, but it can also drive policy change At the end of the day, humankind will always have a heart for change, especially for the vulnerable ones.
PHOTO BY PLANET WATER FOUNDATION
Humanrighttowaterandsanitation|InternationalDecade forAction“WaterforLife”2005-2015.(n.d.). https://www.un.org/waterforlifedecade/human right to wat er.shtml#:~:text=On%2028%20July%202010%2C%20through,r ealisation%20of%20all%20human%20rights.
