The National Water Resources Board (NWRB) has brought together Metro Manila local government units and key national agencies to prepare coordinated measures against the expected impact of El Niño on water resources. Led by NWRB executive director Dr. Sevillo David Jr., the session gathered representatives from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Department of the Interior and Local Government, PAGASA, and LGUs including Makati, Malabon, Manila, Pasay, Pasig, Quezon City, San Juan, and Valenzuela. The goal was to turn technical climate strategies into practical, local action plans while ensuring water conservation becomes a sustained effort.
As part of the agreements reached, MMDA committed to including the El Niño Action Plan in the agenda of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, while DILG pledged to propose the creation of dedicated El Niño response teams in every LGU nationwide. To strengthen operations, NWRB asked local governments to submit details on rainwater harvesting facilities, existing conservation programs, and records of large-volume water users. LGUs were also encouraged to fast-track permits for leak repairs by water providers to avoid unnecessary losses. Participants further agreed to simplify public advisories and communications so more people clearly understand the urgency of saving water.
