New dep’t needed
THE “precarious” freshwater supply situation in the Philippines has thrust outfront the need to speed up the establishment of the proposed Department of Water Resources (DWR)
In fact, the first legislative agenda of the administration of President Marcos, which he presented to the two-chamber Congress last July, included the creation of the new department.
As envisioned by those pushing for the establishment of the new body, the DWR is mandated to efficiently manage the country’s remaining water resources for drinking and irrigation needs.
During last week’s Legislative-Executive Advisory Council (LEDAC) meeting at Malacanang, the Chief Executive from Ilocos Norte was reported to have stressed anew the importance of water.
“Water is too important. Our freshwater supply is generally going down and irrigation is not as widespread as it should be,” President Marcos was quoted as saying during the meeting.
Of course, we share the view of President Marcos that the country needs a team of experts directing the 20 different government state agencies under one roof.
Bongbong, the only son and namesake of the late President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos of Ilocos Norte, said this would ensure the efficient management of our water resources.
Several bills seeking the establishment of the Department of Water Resources are pending consideration in the 24-member Senate and the House of Representatives.
We are confident that the six-year presidency of Mr. Marcos is in a position to address the water needs of the burgeoning population, including our farmers who depend on irrigation.
Tiyak ‘yon!
