Dinagat islands: The province of Dinagat Islands has been placed under a state of calamity after the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) passed a resolution declaring the area in crisis due to the prolonged dry spell brought by the super El Ni±o phenomenon. The SP, led by Vice Gov. Geraldine Ecleo, approved a resolution declaring the entire province under a state of calamity following the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. The resolution was released to the media Thursday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the impacts of prolonged dry conditions associated with the prevailing El Ni±o phenomenon are already manifesting and are projected to intensify within the province. The severe shortage of water has placed at least 15 percent of the population at risk, with many residents requiring emergency assistance to secure minimum potable and domestic water supplies. Prolonged heat and inadequate water supply may increase the risk of dehydration, heat-related illnesses, compromised sanitation and hygiene, deterioration of drinking-water quality, and operational difficulties in health facilities.
Officials said the situation requires strengthened health surveillance, adequate medical supplies, water security in hospitals, and appropriate heat-health advisories. The declaration allows the provincial government to mobilize logistical, financial, technical, and institutional resources for response, rehabilitation, and recovery, subject to existing laws and regulations.
The provincial government began water rationing Wednesday in affected areas, supported by municipal governments and other agencies. "We need to double our efforts to prevent the worsening effects of the dry spell and water shortage," Gov. Nilo Demerey told the Philippine News Agency Thursday. Demerey mentioned that drilling operations will be conducted in identified areas with abundant water sources, where solar pumps will be installed to draw supply. Additionally, the province has procured three reverse osmosis machines to desalinate seawater into potable water. The technical team is already working to establish the machines in strategic areas. The provincial government will also seek support from national agencies to help ease the impacts of the water crisis.
