PAMB SICOGON TACKLES WATER SECURITY

With its goal to monitor the region’s water security due to the threat of longer dry spell caused by the El Niño phenomenon, DENR 6 Regional Executive Director and PAMB Chair Livino B. Duran pointed out to the members of the Sicogon Island Wildlife Sanctuary (SIWS) Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) to check water resources in the island.

“Sicogon has gained its beauty and name to most local and foreign tourists, but let us not forget that this island now holds our legislated protected area, and water security is one of the main agenda,” DENR 6 Regional Executive Director Livino B. Duran said.

“The Conservation and Development Division (CDD) of the DENR regional office will work closely with the PAMO (Protected Area Management Office) to monitor water resources in the island with the use of the Flow Meter. This will help us measure the amount of water flowing through the island’s water source,” he added.

Furthermore, RED Duran also emphasizes that the water security does not only concern the island of Sicogon but in everywhere. He also recommended saving water by fixing possible leaks to reduce water footprints; reusing water like laundry waste water into car washing or cleaning; turning off water while brushing teeth or shaving; and if possible gathering water through water harvesting (rainwater collection).

Aside from water security of the island, other topics included were the flora and fauna found within the wildlife sanctuary; the possible entry and regulation of activities of the tourists within the protected area; and, the possible collaboration with the groups and government agencies like the Department of Tourism (DOT) for eco-tourism programs.

Sicogon Island with an estimated area of 1,160 hectares has an estimated twelve (12) water springs which are the source of drinking water and day-to-day use of the communities on the island.

Based on the report of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)-Visayas, there are eleven (11) identified areas in Visayas that are currently categorized into three climatic periods enduring the effects of El Niño. These include the provinces of Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo and Negros Occidental.

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