The Baguio Water District (BWD) is strengthening and recalibrating its water supply operations as part of its proactive preparations for the possible effects of the projected El Niño phenomenon expected to affect parts of the Asia-Pacific region in the coming months.

BWD General Manager Engr. Salvador M. Royeca assured the public that the District has already activated enhanced contingency measures to help sustain the equitable distribution of water supply as the country transitions from the regular summer season into a potentially prolonged dry period extending into next year.

“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 Niño,” GM Royeca said.

According to Royeca, the District is currently reviewing and refining several engineering and operational interventions aimed at minimizing the impact of prolonged dry conditions on the city’s water supply system.

Among the measures being closely monitored is the performance of District’s newly activated deepwells, which are expected to significantly augment available water supply during the anticipated critical months.

“Our newly activated deepwells will be put to the test during this period, and we are optimistic that these will help provide sufficient supply for the community,” he added.

BWD is also banking on the continued utilization of its rainwater harvesting facilities to help stabilize supply availability. The Sto. Tomas Rain Basin (STRB), the District’s largest rainwater harvesting facility with a full storage capacity of approximately 700,000 cubic meters, remains at a substantial level and is expected to continue augmenting the city’s water supply as a backup source until the end of June.

Meanwhile, the Busol Rainwater Harvesting Facilities remain on standby and are ready for activation during the projected critical months.

While preparations are underway, Royeca acknowledged that several spring water sources have already begun experiencing seasonal decline, affecting reservoir recharge rates in some supply areas. As part of supply optimization efforts, BWD has implemented adjustments to water distribution schedules in selected areas, particularly in locations with higher demand and lower source yield.

Despite these operational challenges, the District emphasized that its ongoing measures are designed to cushion the effects of the dry season while maintaining reliable service delivery across its service areas.

GM Royeca likewise appealed for public cooperation through responsible and mindful water use, emphasizing that water conservation should remain a daily practice regardless of weather conditions.

“Water conservation not only helps extend the availability of our water supply but also contributes to environmental protection,” he said.

BWD continues to closely monitor weather developments and source conditions while implementing adaptive measures to help ensure the sustainability, resilience, and long-term reliability of the city’s water supply system. -BWD