MANILA – The Philippines is facing a risk of “water bankruptcy” as national consumption continues to outpace natural replenishment, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna said.

Speaking during the 2026 World Water Day event in Manila, Cuna stressed the need for conservation as the government steps up efforts to address water gaps.

“The Philippines is facing a challenge of water bankruptcy, where national consumption outpaces nature’s ability to replenish,” he said.

Cuna highlighted ongoing initiatives supported by a PHP485-million investment, which are expected to benefit over 440,000 individuals by the end of 2026.

DENR Undersecretary Carlos Primo David said the programs focus on bringing potable water to remote provinces, targeting 250 small islands, mostly in Mindanao and the Visayas, where drinking water is scarce. He added that some areas in Luzon also face limited access to safe water.

“The situation is dire,” David said, noting that some communities still rely on unsafe sources such as shallow wells. “It is unacceptable that we are now in the year 2026 when there are still Filipinos who fetch water from unsafe sources.”

The department is using modular desalination systems, water refilling stations, and subsurface water extraction technologies, focusing on geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

David acknowledged that the current scale remains limited. Projects have reached or targeted about 405,000 Filipinos, representing only 1 percent of the estimated 40 million people who still lack safe water access. The DENR estimates that PHP200 billion is needed to fully address water scarcity nationwide, with funding constraints cited as the biggest barrier.

“We are investing about PHP1,000 per person, and that goes a long way because almost forever, they will have access to water,” David said, describing the program as “money well spent.”

Cuna also called on the public to participate in water conservation efforts, such as turning off taps while showering or brushing teeth, and promptly reporting leaks from busted water pipes.

“We hope to remind the public that every drop matters. Water is really something our country should treasure. This is a gift, but we must protect and conserve it,” he said.