NCR El Niño task forces to recommend water regulation measures in a week or two —MMDA

The Task Force El Niño of respective local government units (LGUs) in the National Capital Region are set to present measures on water regulation in a week or two, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said Friday.

MMDA chairperson Romando Artes said the task forces will submit their suggested mitigating measures against possible El Niño effects to the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

"Wala po tayong binibigay na deadline pero as soon as possible. Ang balak po kasi namin ay mag-convene kaagad ng Metro Manila Council meeting," Artes said in a press briefing.

(We did not give a deadline but the suggestions must be submitted as soon as possible because we are planning to convene the Metro Manila Council meeting immediately.)

"Siguro in a week or two, siyempre gagawin pa nila yung kanilang tasks and reports," he added.

(Perhaps in a week or two because they have to work on their tasks and reports.)

Artes said the recommendations and findings will be studied and coordinated with concerned government agencies for their possible implementation.

Metro Manila Council (MMC) President and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora earlier said they are studying to regulate the use of water of some establishments amid the looming threats of El Niño.

The El Niño phenomenon is characterized by the abnormal warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean and below-normal rainfall.

While El Niño increases the likelihood of below-normal rainfall conditions, state weather bureau PAGASA said above-normal rainfall conditions during the Southwest Monsoon season also known as Habagat season may also be expected over the western part of the country.

Aside from imposing water regulation, Artes said the MMDA will set aside a budget for the possible procurement of equipment that catches water from air.

“Magse-set aside tayo ng pondo. Meron po kasing bagong technology ngayon na kung saan ang hangin ay nakukuhanan ng tubig,” he said.

(We will set aside funds. There is a new technology where we can catch water from the air.)

For Artes, the MMDA is ready to address the possible effects of the incoming El Niño.

PAGASA has issued an El Niño alert after forecasts showed that the phenomenon may emerge in the next three months at 80% probability and may last until the first quarter of next year.  —KBK, GMA Integrated News