Bangsamoro solons propose rainwater harvesting, solar-powered water distributors

Two bills seeking to mandate the establishment of rainwater harvesting facilities and solar-powered water distribution have been filed at the Bangsamoro Parliament.

Member of the Parliament (MP) Amilbar Mawallil filed Parliament Bill (PB) Nos. 238 and 239 aimed to boost water security and the use of renewable energy in the region.

Once enacted, PB No. 238 or the proposed Bangsamoro Rainwater Harvesting Facility Act of 2023 will require the establishment of rainwater harvesting facilities to be installed as part of any industrial, commercial, or agricultural infrastructures in Bangsamoro.

It will likewise mandate the construction of reservoirs in all infrastructure development projects for various purposes, including irrigation, land preservation, environmental protection, and supporting farmers' livelihoods.

“By mandating the incorporation of rainwater harvesting facilities in infrastructure development projects, we can harness the region's abundant rainfall and make better use of this valuable resource,” Mawalili said.

Meanwhile, proposed PB. No. 239, or the Bangsamoro Solar-Powered Water Distribution Systems Act of 2023 seeks to formulate a three-year program for the construction of solar-powered water distribution systems in every barangay throughout the region.

To reduce their environmental impact and dependency on fossil fuels, the systems will utilize solar energy as their major power source for pumping and distributing water to communities.

The Ministry of Science and Technology will be tasked with creating the said program, with priority given to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas,  Mawalili  added.

Other co-authors of the bills MPs Laisa Alamia, Baintan Ampatuan, Rasol Mitmug Jr., Don Mustapha Loong, Suharto Ambolodto, Rasul Ismael, Hashemi Dilangalen, and Hamid Malik.—Sundy Locus/LDF, GMA Integrated News