BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Mayor Benjamin Magalong has underscored the need for stronger water conservation measures, alternative water sources and closer cooperation among sectors as the city government works to address the Summer Capital’s water supply challenges amid El Niño concerns.
The city’s ongoing water-related initiatives were discussed during a meeting with the Baguio City Advisory Council (BCAC), Baguio People’s Council (BPC) and members of the Sangguniang Kabataan at City Hall on October 13, 2026.
It also served as an opportunity for the groups to be updated on Baguio’s current projects and programs, while gathering their suggestions and concerns on issues affecting residents.
Among the key topics tackled were the protection of watersheds, water recycling and the identification of additional water sources to help ensure a more sustainable supply for the city.
The city also tackled concerns involving high water consumption, its 11-point action plan for El Niño and other measures aimed at conserving water.
Magalong stressed the importance of communication and cooperation among different sectors to help residents better understand the city’s water situation and encourage responsible water use.
He also called for continued collaboration to address Baguio’s water challenges and ensure an adequate supply not only for current residents but also for future generations.
The meeting forms part of the city government’s continuing engagement with advisory bodies, civic organizations and youth representatives to discuss local concerns and strengthen public participation in addressing pressing urban issues.
CDRRMO braces for dry spell, outlines El Niño mitigation steps
The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) under Engr. Charles Carame has set into motion a comprehensive series of mitigation and preparedness measures to cushion the Summer Capital against the anticipated adverse impacts of the El Niño phenomenon.
At a City Hall media forum, October 7, Carame bared the city government’s strategic response framework, prioritizing water conservation, public health safety, and wildfire prevention as dry weather conditions approach.
He warned that prolonged dry spells significantly heighten the risk of water supply deficits across Baguio’s 128 barangays.
To mitigate potential shortages, the CDRRMO is actively coordinating with the Baguio Water District (BWD) and private bulk water suppliers to monitor reservoir levels, secure backup distribution routes, and ensure equitable rationing schedules in vulnerable communities.
In addition to water security, local authorities are bracing for possible increased incidence of forest and brush fires in watershed reservation areas such as Busol and Camp 8.
The CDRRMO is conducting joint risk assessments with the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the city’s barangay volunteer groups to establish grass fire containment protocols and maintain open access along forest buffer zones.
The city government under Mayor Benjamin Magalong is urging households, commercial establishments, and accommodation facilities to practice strict water conservation techniques and inspect electrical installations to eliminate dry-season fire hazards.
All Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (BDRRMCs) have been directed to activate their respective localized contingency plans and report emerging water shortages or environmental risks directly to the CDRRMO command center.- Albeira Gabrielle Cruz/PIO Baguio intern/gabykeith
