Legarda calls for rainwater collection systems in public schools ahead of Super El Niño

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
November 03, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Loren Legarda

Senator Loren Legarda is urging the Department of Education (DepEd) and local government units to install rainwater collection systems in public schools as the country prepares for the possible worsening effects of El Niño.

The proposal is the first measure in Legarda’s 10-point action plan, which seeks to help communities cope with prolonged dry spells and potential water shortages.

She said schools should take advantage of available rainfall while some areas are still experiencing rain, allowing them to build water reserves before conditions become drier.

The collected water could be used for non-drinking purposes, including cleaning school facilities and flushing toilets, particularly in communities with unreliable access to water.

Legarda wants DepEd and local governments to coordinate with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in identifying suitable schools for the installation of rain barrels, roof gutters and storage tanks.

The initiative also builds on DepEd’s existing Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Schools (WinS) technical guidelines, which recognize rainwater collection as a way to support sanitation during emergencies and in areas without regular water supply.

The guidelines estimate that schools need around five liters of water per learner daily for basic hygiene and cleaning. They also recommend installing gutter screens and first-flush diverters to keep debris and contaminated runoff out of storage tanks, which should be cleaned every six months.

Legarda stressed that installations must consider each school’s water requirements, available roof space, local rainfall patterns and storage capacity. Proper maintenance is also necessary to prevent contamination and mosquito breeding.

For communities already experiencing severe drought, she proposed that local governments work with the Bureau of Fire Protection and local water districts to deliver water through tanker trucks. These could be used to refill existing rainwater storage facilities and provide schools with an emergency supply.

The senator said the proposed school-based initiative is part of a broader response to the strong to very strong El Niño affecting the tropical Pacific. PAGASA expects the climate phenomenon to persist until the first quarter of 2027, with possible effects extending into the first half of the year.

Her 10-point plan also covers affordable water for households, protection for outdoor workers and fisherfolk against extreme heat, support for Indigenous forest guards, public cooling centers, heat-reflective paint for homes, drought-resistant crops and trees, and faster financial assistance for affected farmers and small businesses.

Legarda earlier filed Senate Resolution No. 733 seeking an inquiry into the government’s preparedness, existing programs and available funding to address the expected effects of El Niño.

She emphasized that assessing government readiness should go hand in hand with implementing practical measures that schools and communities can begin immediately.