MALACANANG assured the public on Friday that the country’s water reserves remain sufficient even as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) confirmed the presence of a very strong El Niño in the tropical Pacific.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro cited Angat Dam’s water level at 208.70 meters as of November 3 — well above the 180‑meter minimum operating level — as proof that critical water sources are in good condition. “The government guarantees that there is enough water in our dams and reservoirs to meet the public’s needs,” Castro stated.
Beyond water security, Castro said the Department of Agriculture has also assured stable food supplies — particularly rice — while the Department of Energy is taking steps to ensure reliable power plant operations. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has acknowledged that this El Niño event is “of a different class” and will bring hotter, drier conditions in the days ahead, but emphasized that the administration is fully prepared to address the needs of the public.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and coordinate across agencies to minimize disruptions. The public is encouraged to practice water and energy conservation as a prudent measure while El Niño persists, even as the government maintains that current supplies can meet demand. Further updates will be issued as conditions evolve.
metrosundaily
