Manila Water expects gradual increase in consumption if GCQ is imposed in Metro Manila on May 16

Manila Water expects consumption to increase if Metro Manila were to be placed in the general community quarantine on May 16.

In Cedric Castillo's report for "24 Oras," the concessionaire said the enhanced community quarantine lowered the water demand of the commercial and industrial sectors by 30 percent. Residential demand, meanwhile, did not see much change.

With loosened restrictions under the GCQ, water demand would increase as some businesses resume their operations. However, it would "still be less compared to the so-called normal times."

"It would be parang gradual increase in demand particularly for the commerical establishments, even 'yung schools," said Manila Water spokesperson Jeric Sevilla.

Other provinces have already been placed under GCQ, but Metro Manila mayors are looking at the possible extension of the ECQ

During the summer months, water demand typically increases by 6 to 10 percent depending on the temperature, according to Manila Water.

The Philippines has been hit by high temperatures in May, but the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) assured that Metro Manila still has enough supply of water until June.

Data from NWRB showed that the current level of water in Angat Dam is 189.09 meters.

This is around 14 meters higher than the level of water on this day last year, which was 174.84 meters. The previous summer saw interruptions in the water supply.

The minimum operating level of Angat Dam is 180 meters.

"Medyo masasabi po natin na nasa normal pa ang lebel ng Angat Dam," said NWRB Executive Director Sevillo David Jr. "Buo pa 'yung binibigay po natin na alokasyon na 46 cubic meters per second." —MGP, GMA News