The Zamboanga City government has allocated PHP75 million for the construction of a small water impounding dam aimed at addressing the city’s recurring water shortages during prolonged dry spells and El Niño events.
Dr. Elmeir Jade Apolinario, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), announced that the dam will be built in Barangay Pasonanca to help the Zamboanga City Water District (ZCWD) increase its supply capacity during drought periods.
“The objective of this project is to provide a long-term solution to help the ZCWD cope with the scarcity of potable water every time the city experiences El Niño,” Apolinario said in a statement.
The impounding dam is designed to collect and store water during the rainy season for use in the dry months, serving as a critical buffer against supply disruptions. Currently, the ZCWD has been implementing 12-hour water rationing due to supply shortages, as the district relies solely on surface water from the Tumaga River.
The ZCWD manages a reinforced concrete weir or intake dam on the Tumaga River in Barangay Pasonanca. Recent measurements show water levels at only 74.18 meters, slightly below the typical level of 74.20 meters.
Apolinario noted that the state weather bureau has warned of the possible emergence of El Niño beginning this month, underscoring the urgency of the project. The City Engineer’s Office (CEO) is now working on the final preparations for the dam’s construction.
This infrastructure investment reflects the City of Zamboanga’s commitment to building resilience against climate-related water challenges and ensuring a stable water supply for its growing population.
Residents and stakeholders can follow updates on the project through the official Zamboanga City government website.