Against more frequent extreme weather driven by climate change, the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) is prioritizing proactive drought preparation alongside response efforts, aligning with the Marcos administration’s goal of stronger national water security. Upon early forecasts of El Niño, LWUA activated Task Force El Niño and issued guidance centered on four key pillars: climate-resilient supply systems, operational readiness and demand management, standardized operational protocols, and enhanced monitoring, technical and financial backing. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, the agency works directly with individual water districts to assess local risks ranging from vulnerable water sources to rising demand, tailor mitigation plans, cut non-revenue water losses, and promote efficient usage. It also fosters coordination among local governments, utilities and other stakeholders to ensure timely, unified action. These steps aim not only to address the upcoming dry spell but also embed long-term resilience, so communities remain reliably supplied even as future climate challenges emerge.






