DILG orders LGUs to brace for El Niño

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Tuesday, 13 October, urged local government units (LGUs) to strengthen water and energy security measures to prevent disruptions to essential services amid the threat of El Niño.

In an advisory, the DILG directed local chief executives to update their contingency plans, implement precautionary measures and organize or reactivate Local El Niño Teams.

The department called on LGUs to expedite permits for emergency pipeline repairs, restrict non-essential water consumption and promote recycling, rainwater harvesting and catchment systems.

Local governments were also urged to strengthen backup power facilities, prepare adequate fuel supplies and establish emergency water storage and resupply plans.

Hospitals, schools, evacuation centers, water supply facilities and government emergency operations centers must have adequate contingency arrangements to maintain essential services during prolonged dry conditions.

The advisory also called on local officials to convene their disaster risk reduction and management, development, peace and order, and price coordinating councils to align preparations.

LGUs were encouraged to prioritize programs supporting water conservation, energy security, agricultural resilience and livelihoods.

Eligible local governments may seek financial assistance through the Local Government Support Fund, subject to funding availability and applicable requirements.

The directive follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s call for government agencies to prepare for potential disruptions to food production, healthcare, water supply and education.

The DILG stressed that early preparation and coordinated local action would help reduce the impact of El Niño on communities and critical infrastructure.