The Zamboanga City government has allocated PHP 75 million to construct a small water impounding dam in Barangay Pasonanca, addressing the city’s recurring water shortage during prolonged dry spells and El Niño occurrences.
Dr. Elmeir Jade Apolinario, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), announced the project as a long-term solution to help the Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD) cope with scarcity of potable water during drought periods. The impounding dam is designed to collect and store water during the rainy season for use during dry months.
The initiative comes at a critical time as the ZCWD is currently implementing a 12-hour water rationing due to supply shortage, relying solely on surface water from the Tumaga River. Water levels at the reinforced concrete weir in Pasonanca have dropped below the typical 74.20-meter mark to just 74.18 meters.
Apolinario said the state weather bureau warned of a possible El Niño emergence beginning June 2026, making the impounding dam project particularly timely. The City Engineer’s Office will serve as the lead implementing agency, with support from the Office of the City Environment and Natural Resources, the CDRRMO, and ZCWD.
Known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals, Zamboanga City continues to invest in critical infrastructure that directly benefits its residents. The city government has urged the engineering office to fast-track documentary and technical requirements to ensure immediate implementation.
Beyond the Pasonanca project, the city is also considering additional small water impounding dams in Barangay Salaan and other upland areas to improve water distribution in underserved barangays. These long-term investments reflect Zamboanga City’s commitment to building climate resilience and ensuring reliable access to clean water for all residents.