Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS,
First Regular Session

5461

HOUSE BILLNo.__

Introduced by the Honorable Deogracias Victor ‘DV’ B. Savellano

EXPLANATORY NOTE

Rainwater is one of the oldest sources of water for plants, animals and man. Rainwater
harvesting can be traced back to the days of Ancient Rome. With a rapidly growing population
whose requirement for water is growing just as fast, there is a need to rationalize the exploitation of
this valuable resource. There are mature technologies that were not available in the past which
when harnessed now could help in the protection, conservation and judicious use of water.

Rainwater is one water resource that has been least considered as a major solution to our
problems on potable water. It was ignored in the past largely due to the absence of information and
Priorities of past administrations. The huge volume of rainwater that falls on the earth's surface
annually are largely wasted ending up as run-offs in canals and rivers aggravating downstream
flooding and claiming countless of ives, destroying properties and ruining livelihood in the process.

However, with billions of pesos in damages caused by torrential rains and flash floods, it is
important to ensure the safe use of rainwater harvesting through proper technology and such a
system should be instituted in the whole country, all over the Philippines. This would definitely
supplement the water supply and will serve as a contingency during water shortages or
interruptions.

In view of the foregoing, the passage of this bill is earnestly sought.

Deogracia: r ‘DV’ B. Savellano
Represent 2,1 District , locos Sur


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRSENTATIVES
‘Quezon City

EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House BILL Nop 461

Introduced by the Honorable Deogracias Victor “DV” B. Savellano

AN ACT
INSTITUTIONALIZING A RAINWATER HARVESTING SYSTEM FOR THE WHOLE PHILIPPINES

Be it enacted by the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. Declaration of Policy - The State recognizes the importance of preserving its natural
resources such as rainwater. The State shall therefore maximize its use by providing a mechanism
that will promote, regulate and sustain its utilization to supplement the dwindling water supply and
control flooding. Pursuant thereto, the State and its instrumentalities shall adapt and implement
programs that will promote the sustainability and maximization of rainwater.

SECTION 2. Definition of Terms - As used in this Act:

a) Rainwater ~ refers to liquid water in the form of droplets that have condensed from
atmospheric water vapor and then precipitated to become heavy enough to fall under
gravity.

b) Rainwater catchment ~ refers to an area or water shortage tanks where rainwater is
collected.

) Rainwater harvesting — refers to the accumulation and deposition of rainwater for
reuse on-site during water restrictions and shortages or to supplement the main
supply.

d)_ Rainwater harvesting system (RHS) ~ refers to the process of collecting rainwater which
can be used for potable consumption if filtered and disinfected, and non-potable
consumption if used untreated, through a technology that uses materials and water
shortage tanks that are not susceptible to contaminants and that will not leach toxins
into the water under either normal or acid rain conditions. RHS provides a simple and
cost-effective means to preserve water, reduce flooding, provide water buffer and
recharge aquifers.

SECTION 3. Utilization of Rainwater Harvesting. ~ A rainwater harvesting system (RHS) shall be
constructed in all government and public establishments all over the Philippines, for rainwater
collection to ensure continuous water supply even during times of drought or water shortages.



Rainwater catchment or storage tanks shall be installed and constructed in all
government and public establishments all over the Philippines through a technology that uses
materials that will not leach toxins into the water under either normal or acid rain conditions and
water storage tanks that are not susceptible to contaminants.

The local government unit shall also utilize the facilities that have been provided and
constructed by the Department of Public Works and Highways pursuant to its mandate under RA
6716, entitled, An Act Providing for the Construction of Water Wells, Rainwater Collectors,
Development of Springs and Rehabilitation of Existing Water Wells in all Barangays in the
Philippines, and its recommended prototype designs for rainwater catchments.

SECTION 4. Rainwater Treatment - To ensure the quality of rainwater for drinking purposes, a
rainwater treatment device shall be installed in each barangay for filtration and purification
processes.

The DPWH, through its attached agencies, shall provide a rainwater treatment facility in
each barangay.

SECTION 5. Operation and Maintenance. ~ Notwithstanding the provisions of Sec.3 of RA 6716, the
operation and maintenance of the RHS shall be vested upon the barangay government, headed by
its Chairperson, to regulate the proper distribution and utilization of water and to ensure the regular
cleaning and inspection of the gutters and down-pipes and removal of dirt, leaves, and other
accumulated materials. It shall implement additional care mechanisms to avoid damage to
equipment and facilities, and possible contamination by people and animals to the water reservoir.
It shall integrate the concept of climate change in the various phases of policy formulation.

SECTION 6. Monitoring and Evaluation. - The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG)
shall conduct regular monitoring and evaluation on the RHS to determine the safety of water for
domestic use.

SECTION 7. Appropriations — The amount necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act shall be
included in the budget of the concerned departments and agencies. For the concerned local
government units, the amount shall be taken from the internal revenue allotment.

SECTION 8. Implementing Rules and Regulations- Within sixty (60) days of the effectivity of this
‘Act, the DILG, in consultation with the local chief executive and representative of the barangay
council, shall formulate the guidelines to fully implement the provisions of this Act .

SECTION 9. Separability Clause - If any provision of this Act is held invalid or unconstitutional, the
‘same shall not affect the validity and effectivity of the other provisions hereof.

SECTION 10. Repealing Clause ~ All laws, decrees, executive orders, rules and regulations contrary
or inconsistent with the provisions of this Act are hereby repealed or modified accordingly.

SECTION 11. Effectivity — This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the
Official Gazette or in two (2) newspapers of general circulation.

Approved,