It’s not even summer yet, but we’re definitely feeling the heat already. With temperatures shooting to as high as 33 degrees Centigrade and water in our dams falling far below required levels, the Philippines braces itself for drought this year.

By imom www.imomonline.net

The El Nino phenomenon, which last struck the country in 1998, threatens once again. Because the Philippines did not get its expected rainfall, we are facing a huge possibility of water shortage this summer. Certain areas in Metro Manila are already experiencing water rationing, while others, dry taps.

Water shortage has greater implications that go beyond discomforts we may feel in our homes. Hydroelectric dams utilize water to generate power, and water shortage will inevitably lead to power shortage. Power outages affect factory productivity and disrupt classes and office work, among other repercussions.

Our country’s agricultural industry is also bound to suffer. Damage to crops is estimated to have reached P7 billion already. Scarcity of food supply leads to higher prices of commodities.

To make a difference, water conservation must begin in each home. So it’s important to educate not only ourselves, but the rest of the household.



Here are some practical tips on how to save water:

1. Check your plumbing for leaks. Hidden leaks that we take for granted may be in flushes, faucets, showers, and valves. If the leaks are small, you can even do the repair yourself.

2. Instead of the shower, use a bucket and a tabo or water dipper when taking a bath. This way, you are conscious of how much water you’re consuming.

3. In the same way, use a glass of water for brushing teeth, and a small basin for washing the face.

4. Schedule laundry every other day instead. This not only saves water, but also electricity if you wash with a machine.

5. When washing laundry by hand, turn off the faucet. House helpers are most guilty of letting the tap run continuously while rinsing clothes, letting water overflow. Educate your house helpers.

6. Instead of using a water hose for washing the car and watering plants, use a bucket of water instead.

7. Save and recycle laundry water for cleaning floors, windows, and other surfaces that do not require clean water.
Water conservation is not the sole responsibility of one government agency. It requires all of us to act together. Desperate times call for desperate measures - and a bit of going back to basics. It’s time to bring out the timba, tabo, and palanggana.

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