MANILA --  The government has shifted measures to maximize water supply amid the La Niña phenomenon that is expected to hit most parts of Mindanao later this year, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. revealed on Monday.

“Nagbago na talaga ang approach sa flood control, sa irrigation at lahat. Kaya’t ‘yun ang sinusundan namin ngayon,” President Marcos said.

President Marcos made the remarks when asked about government’s response in low-lying areas in Cotabato and Maguindanao on the sidelines of the inauguration of the Malitubog-Maridagao Irrigation Project Stage II (MMIP II).

The President said the government used to identify the particular use of water if it is for irrigation, hydro, or household use.

“Ang approach ngayon, lahat ng ginagawa na ito kung mayroon isang kasama d’yan ang irrigation, kasama d’yan ang fresh water supply. Kasama d’yan ang flood control at kasama na d’yan ‘yung patubig na para sa mga magsasaka,” he said.

The chief executive said there are many new technologies suited for government response to the La Niña phenomenon.

Among them is the creation of more dams that will feature multiple functions such as converting water for household use, for irrigation, flood control and hydro-electric power. (PND)