Dinagat Islands declares calamity as water crisis deepens

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — Facing a critical water supply crisis, the Dinagat Islands provincial government has moved swiftly to declare a state of calamity, enabling faster response and resource allocation to address the shortage affecting communities across the province.

Governor Nilo Demerey Jr. made the early declaration to expedite emergency measures aimed at alleviating water supply constraints. The timing allows the provincial government to activate disaster response protocols and coordinate with national agencies more effectively.

The provincial government is pursuing a three-pronged strategy to manage the crisis. Plans include accelerated groundwater drilling projects to tap underground water reserves, implementation of desalination facilities to process seawater into potable water, and continuation of water rationing schemes to ensure equitable distribution among residents and critical sectors.

The water shortage has intensified pressure on communities in the island province, prompting the need for immediate intervention. Officials are working to implement these measures in parallel, with groundwater exploration and desalination facilities expected to provide medium to long-term relief while rationing addresses immediate demand.