Catarman readies water rationing amid drought

TACLOBAN CITY, LEYTE, Philippines — The Catarman Water District (CWD) in Catarman, Northern Samar, is preparing to ration water in several areas of the municipality experiencing shortages as drought conditions continue to affect local water sources, officials said.

The planned water rationing was among the concerns discussed during the third-quarter meeting of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) on Sept. 7, presided over by Mayor Dianne Rosales.

CWD manager engineer Gilbert Cuanico said the water district was preparing to deliver water to barangays without water connections and to areas where existing water sources had dried up.

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Among the areas being considered for water deliveries is Barangay Hinatad, where the town’s Rural Health Unit 3 is located.

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Water assistance may also be extended to UEP Zones 1, 2 and 3, Galutan and Doña Pulqueria, Cuanico said.

READ: DA urges Mindanao farmers to brace for drought

Most of these areas are scheduled to receive water connections this month, although Hinatad is not included in the September installation schedule.

While awaiting permanent connections, affected communities may receive water deliveries of at least 10 cubic meters per trip, according to the CWD.

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The water shortage has also been incorporated into the municipality’s Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment scenario building as local authorities prepare for the possible effects of prolonged dry conditions.

Although the northeast monsoon, or “amihan,” has begun, Catarman and other parts of Northern Samar continue to experience drought and high heat-index levels, prompting local officials to prepare measures for communities affected by water shortages.

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Meanwhile, the Municipal Health Office reported a rise in dengue cases, particularly in barangays within the town proper.

As of Sept. 6, Catarman had recorded 69 dengue cases from nine barangays: Baybay, Cawayan, Daganas, Dalakit, Ipil-Ipil, Abad Santos, Talisay, UEP Zone 3 and Yakal.

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The MDRRMC discussed the water shortage and rising dengue cases as part of the municipality’s continuing disaster preparedness and response efforts. /cb