By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy.
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Residents are being urged to store as much water as possible ahead of an expected Super El Niño, as experts warn that the last months of 2026 could bring severe dry spells despite rains still expected from June to September.
The advisory was issued during a May 29 summit on the city’s water vulnerability, where officials stressed the need for early preparation amid Baguio’s long-standing water supply challenges.
Water rationing in the city has been in place since the early 1990s due to an overstressed aquifer serving the high-density mountain city, which had a population of 368,426 as of the 2024 census.
Demand further surges during daytime hours, with the population swelling to more than 700,000 due to students, workers and tourists, according to City Planning Officer Architect Donna Tabangin.
