Philippines defends President Marcos Jr.’s rainwater collection advice

The Philippine government is defending President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recommendation for citizens to collect and store rainwater in pails to prepare for the potential worsening of El Niño. The advice, which suggested buying buckets to harvest rain, faced online criticism from groups who argued it was an insufficient solution to the looming water crisis.

In response, Malacañang Press Officer Claire Castro stated the suggestion is part of a broader strategy for water conservation and preparedness. To support this initiative, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is preparing to distribute portable water filtration kits to vulnerable communities.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian conducted a live demonstration of the filtration kits, which included drinking the filtered water to show its safety. The government intends to provide instructional guidance to ensure the public can properly filter water to prevent illness during shortages.