Senator Manuel “Lito” Lapid has urged the Philippine Senate to fast-track the passage of a bill that would create a Department of Water Resources, a centralized agency aimed at addressing the country’s growing water management challenges.
The proposed Department of Water Resources would be responsible for establishing a comprehensive framework to govern the use, conservation, and distribution of water across the nation. This bill is designed to provide a coordinated response to the country’s pressing water-related issues, including shortages, contamination, and climate-induced disruptions.
Senator Lapid emphasized that water scarcity, uneven distribution, and inefficient resource management have long impacted communities, particularly those in rural areas. By creating a specialized agency, he argues, the government can take a more proactive and cohesive approach to water resource management, ensuring that communities gain consistent access to safe and reliable water sources.
“This department would not only address water needs but also oversee policies that safeguard this essential resource for future generations,” Lapid said, adding that an agency focused exclusively on water issues is crucial for the country’s sustainable development.
The Senate is expected to review the proposal as water scarcity and infrastructure inefficiencies become a growing concern for Philippine society.