Manila: The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has warned that declining water levels in major Luzon dams underscore the urgent need for stronger local climate action plans to effectively address growing water security risks posed by prolonged dry conditions and extreme heat. In a news release Wednesday, CCC Vice Chairperson and Executive Director Robert E.A. Borje highlighted the importance of anticipation, especially for local government units (LGUs), to be able to address the issue through science-based, forward-looking planning, and in the formulation and implementation of their Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs).
According to Philippines News Agency, Borje emphasized that for a water-stressed, disaster-prone country like the Philippines, climate change is not simply an ecosystem issue with economic consequences but an existential threat to the economy, communities, and families. "Buhay, kabuhayan, at kinabukasan nating lahat ang nakataya (Our life, livelihood, and future are at stake), and water sits at the center of that reality," Borje stated.
Monitoring by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) revealed that major dams in Luzon, particularly the Angat Dam, have recorded low water levels. Angat Dam in Bulacan, which serves as the main water source for Metro Manila, has dropped to 177.41 meters on May 19, far below its normal level of 210 meters. PAGASA also recorded lower water elevations in Ambuklao, La Mesa, San Roque, Pantabangan, Ipo, and Magat dams.
The CCC reiterated its earlier warnings that "climate risks are no longer distant projections, but realities already affecting communities and critical resources across the country." Amid these realities, the CCC urged LGUs to integrate climate adaptation measures, such as sustainable water management, watershed protection, rainwater harvesting, and early warning systems, into their local development plans.
Under the Climate Change Act, LCCAPs serve as the primary mechanism for mainstreaming climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction into local development planning. These plans are intended not only for disaster response but more importantly for preparedness, risk prevention, and long-term resilience-building.
The CCC also highlighted that these efforts support the country's National Adaptation Plan (NAP) under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which prioritizes water security, food security, ecosystem resilience, and climate-resilient infrastructure. "The NAP emphasizes anticipatory and preventive action to reduce climate-related losses and damages, especially at the local level where climate impacts are most directly experienced," the CCC said.
As climate variability intensifies, Borje said the CCC is pushing for a more coordinated whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to safeguard vulnerable communities and strengthen their adaptive capacity.
