DAVAO CITY -- An environmental advocacy group has called for a stricter implementation of the rainwater harvesting law in the city amid concerns that Davao City could experience water shortage.
The Interface Development Initiatives (IDIS), during Monday's Kapehan sa Dabaw, said the enforcement of the rainwater harvesting law does not only mean saving on water bill but "more on conserving water for next generation of Dabawenyos."
IDIS Trustee Mary Ann Fuertes said Davao City is likely to experience water shortage, such as what Metro Manila had experienced, given the city's rapid economic progress.
Fuertes said rain harvesting or putting a rainwater catchment system can help in water conservation, which can be used for car washing, watering plants, and for other household uses.
Aside from changing the people's attitude towards water conservation, Fuertes said there is still a need to strictly implement rainwater harvesting.
She noted that an increasing number of buildings have rainwater catchment systems, but added that this is not widely adopted, especially among small commercial establishments.
Fuertes also said that some building owners present only plans with catchment system to get a business or building permit -- but would not construct anything in reality.
A survey conducted by IDIS and the Ateneo de Davao University found that only 26 percent of every 100 establishments here have rainwater catchment system.
In August last year, the City Engineer and Building Office recorded close to 2,000 establishments and residential owners that have complied with the city's Rainwater Harvesting Ordinance.
Fuertes said close monitoring of commercial and residential buildings should be done. (PNA)
