LGUs mobilized to save water DENR to NCR chiefs, subdivisions: Collect rainwater, reuse wastewater

By Macon Ramos-Araneta and Rio N. Araja

THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources has advised village leaders and residents of Metro Manila to reduce activities such as watering lawns and washing cars to avert massive water interruptions in the coming months.

In its Bulletin No. 2, the DENR's Water Resources Management Office (WRMO) told all barangay officials and condominium and subdivision managers to advise residents to conserve water.

The WRMO said residents should also be encouraged to promote rainwatercollection for non-potable use of water and to reuse laundry and dishwashing wastewater for watering plants.

The WRMO also directed all local government units in the National Capital Region to speed up the approval of pipe repairs of water concessionaires Manila Water and Maynilad.

“As we prepare for even drier conditions due to El Niño, it is, more than ever, important to conserve water in order to prevent massive water interruptions later this year,” the WRMO said.

Earlier, the WRMO issued its first bulletin containing the guidelines for water conservation measures by all government offices, through their building administrators.

In its second bulletin, the WRMO said its team will conduct spotinspections of office buildings for unwarranted use of water, leaks, and faulty bathroom fixtures. The team will ensure that WRMO Bulletin Nos. 1 and 2 are posted in offices accordingly.

The WRMO said that together with