Water container demand surges in Bulacan amid drought and service cuts

CITY OF BALIWAG — Water storage containers have become a hot commodity in Bulacan as residents grapple with extended water service disruptions and drought conditions intensified by the "Super El Niño" phenomenon. Retailers across the province report brisk sales of water drums, buckets, and other storage vessels as households move to secure alternative supplies.

At Imelda Drum Trading along Maharlika Highway in Barangay Tarcan, Baliwag City, merchants say daily sales have surged over the past week, reflecting widespread concern about water availability. The uptick in purchases underscores growing anxiety among residents facing both scheduled and unscheduled service interruptions.

Water utility officials have attributed recent service cuts to El Niño-related supply pressures and infrastructure maintenance. The combination of reduced water availability and supply disruptions has pushed many households to stockpile containers and explore alternative water sources.

Local government units in affected Bulacan municipalities have advised residents to use water judiciously and prepare contingency supplies. Officials cautioned that the dry spell could persist for several months as El Niño conditions are forecast to continue.