Metro Manila, Philippines– The water allocation cut for Metro Manila takes effect as the water level of Angat Dam fell below its minimum operating level, authorities said.
National Water Resources Board (NWRB) Executive Director Sevillo David Jr. said the 48 cubic meters per second (CMS) water allocation for concessionaires and 20 CMS for the National Irrigation Authority (NIA) are now being implemented, as the water level in Angat Dam dipped to 179.99 meters early Saturday morning.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) dam information, Angat Dam’s minimum operating level is 180 meters, while its normal high water level (NHWL), or spilling level, is 210 meters.
The NWRB on Thursday said it will reduce the water allocation for Metro Manila to 48 cubic meters per second (CMS) until the end of July if water in the dam falls below its minimum operating level.
West zone concessionaire Maynilad Water Services Inc. earlier said around 591,000 customers may experience up to nine hours of daily water service interruptions starting July 12 due to the low water supply.
“Magbibigay kami ng update ukol sa impact nito sa supply, gayundin ang listahan ng mga apektadong lugar ng service interruptions,” Maynilad said Saturday in a social media post.
[Translation: We will give an update on its impact on our supply, as well as the list of affected locations of water interruptions.]
