DENR to mandate water recycling at Manila golf courses amid El Niño

MANILA — The Department of Environment and Natural Resources plans to issue directives requiring golf courses operating in Metro Manila to implement water conservation measures, including mandatory use of recycled water, as the nation prepares for potential El Niño effects. Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna disclosed the initiative during a briefing at the Palace, emphasizing the need for private sector cooperation in addressing water scarcity concerns.

The directive represents part of the government's broader strategy to mitigate the anticipated impact of El Niño, which typically brings drier conditions and reduced water availability across the Philippines. Golf courses, which require substantial water volumes for maintenance of playing surfaces, have come under scrutiny as potential targets for conservation efforts.

Under the planned measures, golf facilities would be required to shift toward recycled or reclaimed water sources rather than relying solely on freshwater supplies. The DENR is expected to outline specific compliance requirements and timelines for affected courses, though full details of the directive have yet to be released.

The move reflects growing government concern over water resources during the anticipated dry season. Officials have indicated that conservation efforts must extend across multiple sectors to effectively address potential water shortages and ensure adequate supplies for essential uses throughout the metro area.