This paper examines the policies governing groundwater management in the Philippines. It identifies the institutions and their programs to address groundwater utilization. The paper also presents a conceptual framework for sustainable groundwater management and relates this to the country’s present situation. Groundwater is a reliable water source for irrigation is the last to be depleted during periods of drought. But compared to surface water, groundwater is like an invisible resource. Limited information on the characteristics of aquifers and use patterns; and weak institutional capacity may pose challenges to sustainable groundwater management.
The comprehensive development, utilization, conservation and protection of groundwater resources, is embodied in the Philippines’ national policies. However, there is a lot to be desired in the control and management of groundwater for irrigation. An integrated groundwater management and effective coordination among agencies has yet to be institutionalized. Monitoring and tracking mechanisms on groundwater use also have to be established; and sustainability issues such as groundwater protection, should be appropriately addressed.
