Baguio: The city's water utility distributor, Baguio Water District (BWD), announced on Thursday that it is calibrating its distribution system to ensure an ample water supply for all consumers as the region faces a dry spell. "As always, we have our contingency plans in place. This is part of the annual operational cycle of water districts. We just have to calibrate it depending on the factors, this time the projected Super El Ni±o," BWD General Manager Salvador Royeca stated.
According to Philippines News Agency, BWD has activated enhanced contingency measures to facilitate the equitable distribution of water supply as the country transitions from the regular summer season to a potentially prolonged dry period extending to 2027. As part of its supply optimization efforts, BWD has implemented adjustments to water distribution schedules in selected areas, particularly those with higher demand and lower source yield.
Royeca explained that ongoing measures are designed to mitigate the effects of the dry season while ensuring reliable service delivery across service areas. BWD is reviewing and refining several engineering and operational interventions aimed at minimizing the impact of prolonged dry conditions on the city's water supply system. Currently, BWD produces 55,802 cubic meters per day from 73 underground deep wells, 89 pumping stations, and four spring sources for its 51,270 active connections.
The performance of newly activated deep wells is being closely monitored, expected to significantly augment the available water supply during anticipated critical months. Royeca expressed optimism that these wells would help provide sufficient supply for the community. BWD has allocated funds for drilling at least two deep wells annually to manage the growing population in the city and accommodate tourist arrivals, which also demand substantial water supply.
Additionally, BWD's supply will be supported by the Sto. Tomas Rain Basin (STRB), the district's largest rainwater harvesting facility, with a full storage capacity of approximately 700,000 cubic meters. It serves as a backup source during the dry season. The Busol Rainwater Harvesting facilities remain on standby for activation during projected critical months.
Royeca noted that several spring water sources have already begun experiencing seasonal decline, affecting reservoir recharge rates in some supply areas. BWD urged the public to practice responsible water use, emphasizing the importance of water conservation regardless of weather conditions. "Water conservation not only helps extend the availability of our water supply but also contributes to environmental protection," he said.
In parallel, the city government reported that the construction of a PHP48 million rainwater harvesting facility at the Buyog Watershed is currently at 30 percent completion. Funded by the national government's PHP50 million Local Government Support Fund (LGSF), the facility is designed to hold 10,000 cubic meters and is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2027.
