As floods swamp south, dry spell grips northeast Mindanao

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SAN FRANCISCO, AGUSAN DEL SUR, Philippines — While relentless rains have triggered flash floods and landslides across parts of southwestern Mindanao in recent days, communities in the island’s northeastern section are grappling with the opposite problem—a prolonged dry spell that has left thousands of residents facing water shortages.

At least 1,300 households in three villages in this town, particularly those in elevated areas, have been experiencing water shortages or intermittent service since June after prolonged dry weather significantly reduced the yield of local water sources, according to the San Francisco Water District.

Elmer Luzon, the water district’s general manager, said on Tuesday the utility is facing a critical water supply shortage as persistently dry conditions have caused water levels at its primary sources to decline.

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