The looming water rationing in some parts of Metro Manila is a result of years of government neglect and lack of planning and foresight.

This, according to Liberal Party senatorial candidate lawyer Alex “Pinoy” Lacson, as he proposed that the next Congress should study laws and policies that will prioritize better water resources management and protection.

“Government should realize that we are a growing society. Our water requirements are increasing with migration and population growth. There should be plans on how to tap other sources of water, and protect the existing sources we have. We need better policies than just rationing due to climate pressures -- we need efficient forecasting and policies to help us adapt to climate changes,” he added.

At the same time, Lacson expressed his full support to calls made by environment activist Greenpeace to "climate-proof" water resources.

Lacson also echoed the view of Greenpeace that water supply should be a top priority for the country’s next president. He vowed that should he be elected as senator “I would really like to focus on this problem since this is directly related to our survival. We need to look into maximizing and protecting our water resources.”

Lacson’s statement came after the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System recently announced that it expects water levels especially in Angat Dam to reach 166 meters, the lowest water level recorded in history. Previous levels are within the 170-186 meters range.