By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur– The ongoing dry spell, worsened by the onset of El Niño, has caused a sharp drop in water levels at the Taguibo Watershed, which is the primary water source for Butuan City.
According to the Butuan City Public Information Office (PIO), the Taguibo Aquatech Solutions Corporation (TASC) is currently only able to supply 34.30 million liters per day (MLD), significantly below the normal levels required by Butuan City Water District (BCWD).
This reduction in water supply is affecting many areas, especially those located further from the water distribution network.
As BCWD reported, several distant neighborhoods are either experiencing no water supply or low water pressure, making daily life increasingly difficult for many residents. The lower water flow is especially noticeable in high-elevation areas, where water struggles to reach the taps.
In response, the BCWD has ramped up its efforts to mitigate the water shortage. As outlined by the BCWD, the agency has activated all three of its pump stations in a bid to boost water flow to the city. Additionally, repair work on damaged or aging distribution lines is being carried out to enhance the overall water delivery system.
The BCWD has also rolled out Oplan Sag-ob, an initiative aimed at improving the water supply in areas most affected by the reduced flow. This operation is currently underway at Pump Station No. 1, located in Alviola Village, Barangay Baan Km. 3, from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. The BCWD emphasizes that this initiative is crucial to ensuring the water distribution system continues to function during the dry season.
Adding to the growing concerns, the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) has issued a Heat Index Forecast for Butuan City, warning of a scorching 42°C on April 24, 2026.
At this level, the forecast suggests the risk of heat cramps and heat exhaustion, which, if left unattended, could lead to heat stroke. Local authorities are urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
As the situation unfolds, the BCWD and the PIO are urging the public to practice water conservation. “It is essential for everyone to help reduce water consumption during this time,” the PIO stated. “We all must cooperate to ensure that the available water is shared equitably among residents, especially during the peak of the dry season.”
The city has also been reminding residents to report any irregularities or issues related to the water supply so that immediate action can be taken.
With El Niño expected to persist, the strain on the water supply in Butuan City is likely to continue.
The BCWD, in coordination with the local government, is committed to managing the crisis and ensuring that all residents are supported throughout the dry spell. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and adhere to water-saving measures as the city works to secure its water resources.
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