(Photo courtesy of PIA)
MALABON CITY – The Malabon City Government has strengthened its preparations for the anticipated effects of El Niño, focusing on water conservation, public health, fire prevention, and food security.
Mayor Jeannie Sandoval called for closer coordination among city departments, barangay officials, utility providers, and partner agencies to minimize the impact of prolonged dry conditions on residents and local livelihoods.
“Ang paghahanda sa El Niño ay nangangailangan ng maayos na koordinasyon ng ating mga tanggapan, partner agencies, at mga barangay. Mahalaga ang aktibong pakikiisa ng bawat isa sa pagtitipid ng tubig, pag-iingat sa matinding init, at pag-iwas sa sunog upang mapangalagaan natin ang kalusugan, kaligtasan, at kabuhayan ng bawat Malabueño,” Sandoval said.
The city’s preparedness measures were discussed during a recent Task Force El Niño meeting led by the Malabon Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO).
Representatives from various local government offices, barangays, Maynilad Water Services, Meralco, the Philippine National Police, and the Bureau of Fire Protection attended the meeting to coordinate response plans and clarify responsibilities.
Among the priorities is ensuring adequate water supply, particularly in communities vulnerable to service interruptions. Concerned offices and Maynilad will assess water availability, address leaks in public facilities, promote conservation, and prepare emergency water distribution measures.
The City Health Office, Ospital ng Malabon, and barangay health workers will also strengthen public advisories and monitoring of heat-related illnesses, especially among vulnerable residents.
Authorities are likewise preparing measures to reduce fire hazards by inspecting high-risk areas, checking firefighting equipment, maintaining emergency access routes, and expanding fire prevention campaigns.
To address possible disruptions in food supply and livelihoods, the city will coordinate with market authorities and government agencies to monitor the availability and prices of essential commodities.
Barangay officials have been encouraged to identify vulnerable households, designate potential emergency water distribution sites, and strengthen community preparedness.
Meanwhile, the city’s information offices will continue public awareness campaigns on water conservation, heat safety, fire prevention, and emergency reporting.
City Administrator Alexander Rosete emphasized that clearly defined responsibilities and effective coordination among agencies are essential to strengthening Malabon’s resilience against El Niño.
Sandoval also urged residents to follow official advisories and participate in conservation and safety efforts, stressing that community cooperation remains crucial in reducing the effects of extreme weather conditions.
