MANILA: Malacanang on Thursday (Oct 1) told the public that there is no need to hoard potable water as the government is preparing to prevent a water supply shortage amid the possible impact of a super El Nino.
The state weather bureau recently warned that a “very strong El Nino” is likely to emerge between October and December 2026 and may continue until the first half of 2027.
At a briefing, Palace press officer Claire Castro warned that hoarding could fuel fear and panic, while an artificial shortage caused by stockpiling could also drive up prices.
“First of all, why do you need to hoard water for drinking? We will not run out of drinking water. And as you know, bottled water also has a period within which it should be consumed,” she said.
“So, it is not advisable to stockpile or hoard water now out of fear that we will run out of drinking water. As we have often said, we experience El Nino every year, and we have a Task Force El Nino in place,” the Palace official also said.
Citing previous statements from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that climate change is worsening the effects of the phenomenon, Castro said the public should also prepare alongside the government’s efforts to assist those who may be affected.
“The government is prepared, and many programmes have already been put in place. Assistance will also be provided to our fisherfolk and farmers who may be affected,” she said.
Government agencies concerned are also coordinating with the Climate Change Commission, headed by Marcos, on preparations for the impact of El Nino.
Among the agencies involved are the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, Department of Agriculture, National Irrigation Administration, National Water Resources Board, and Department of Social Welfare and Development.
“Funding has been allocated to ensure that we are properly prepared, especially since this has been identified as a potential Super El Nino,” Castro said.
“So, many measures have already been discussed covering climate information, agriculture and food, irrigation, water supply, and social protection. So, you can be assured that the government is fulfilling its responsibilities,” she also said. - Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN
