Maynilad mulls 20-hour water interruption

MANILA, Philippines - The Maynilad Water Services Inc. is considering extending the water supply interruption in Metro Manila from seven hours to 20, officials said yesterday.

Maynilad is implementing water service interruption during the off-peak usage hours from 9 p.m. to 4 a.m. in the west zone.

The firm said it is waiting for the advisory from the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) if there would be further reduction in its water allocation.

“If it falls below 38 cubic meters, we would have to lengthen the service interruption to as long as 20 hours,” Ronaldo Padua, head of Maynilad’s water supply operations, said.

The NWRB on Monday postponed the setting of a new water allocation from Angat Dam pending consultations with stakeholders. 

“Considering the current water level in Angat Dam and the strong El Nino, the board is considering the possible impact of the allocation to affected users, including water supply for Metro Manila if changes will be made,” NWRB executive director Sevillo David said.

Earlier, the NWRB implemented the reduced water allocation of 38 cubic meters from 41 for municipal use.– Czeriza Valencia, Rhodina Villanueva