Provincial gov’t to install water catchments

CEBU, Philippines - The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office of the provincial government is preparing to put in place water catchment facilities in selected Capitol-run establishments in preparation for typhoons, as well as for the anticipated El Niño phenomenon.

The specific locations are yet to be identified.

PENRO officer-in-charge Czareem Joseph Estella said the water catchment project is a product of brainstorming with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office.

The water catchment, Estella explained, will collect and store rainwater so that it can be used for other means like watering plants and in flushing of toilets. 

“Nakita nato nga panginahanglan sa tubig, dependent kayo ta sa private provider,” Estella said. With the catchment, rainwater, which usually just go down the drain, would be put to good use.

Aside from recycling rainwater, Estella said having the facility would help prevent flooding because it would hold rainwater that would most likely go the streets, notwithstanding the absence of proper working drainages.

The water catchment facility would cost around P153,000 each.

Aside from the catchment, Estella said they are also eyeing at a proposal for a treatment machine, which allows water to be purified and be potable.

Estella said the project will go through a bidding process while they continue to partner with non-government organizations and private groups on the possible use of the facility.

Meanwhile, PENRO continues to strengthen its efforts to promote proper solid waste management systems in local government units.

Initially, PENRO provided technical assistance for solid waste management-related activities and assisted in conducting  waste analysis and  characterization studies, including in Pilar and San Francisco in Camotes Island and the towns of Aloguinsan, Badian and Barili.  (FREEMAN)