Dinagat islands: The provincial government of Dinagat Islands has earmarked PHP29 million for water resource development as the island province grapples with a prolonged dry spell that has triggered a water crisis. Provincial Planning and Development Officer George Daligdig said on Wednesday that the budget was approved Tuesday by the executive committee led by Gov. Nilo Demerey Jr. and will fund long-term water source development across municipalities.

According to Philippines News Agency, Daligdig noted that part of the allocation will support the tapping of water from Sabang Dam in Cagdianao, following a partnership forged last week between the province and San Miguel Corp. (SMC). "Based on the agreement with SMC, the counterpart of the province in the tapping of water from the dam is labor and other logistics," Daligdig said in an interview.

He added that the bulk of the budget will be used for drilling potential water sources in different towns to secure a sustainable supply. "The tapping of Sabang Dam will start this month as technical people from SMC will arrive here this week," Daligdig said.

Meanwhile, the Office of Civil Defense in Caraga (OCD-13) continues to deliver potable water to affected residents. On Wednesday, OCD-13 distributed 10,800 boxes of drinking water, each containing 6.6 liters, to towns across the province. Officials said the interventions form part of ongoing government efforts to address the water shortage and strengthen long-term resilience.