Water Shortage: Lessons From The Sapangbato Experience

THE SAPANG BATO EXPERIENCE 1
HOLY ANGEL UNIVERSITY
Water Shortage: Lessons from the Sapang Bato Experience
Mia Grace D. Malit
Aubrey P. Tayag
Vincent Xavier R. Baluyut
Christine Dennise A. Manalili
Eileene D. Cunanan
Justine D. Gabriel
John Lloyd B. Mallari
Marie Diana Ocampo
Holy Angel University
Authors’ Note
Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Mia Grace D. Malit,
School of Arts and Sciences, College Department, Holy Angel University, #1 Holy Angel
Avenue, Sto. Rosario, Angeles City, 2009, Philippines, Email: malitmiagrace@gmail.com

Acknowledgement
The researchers wish to extend their appreciation to:
To each of the proponents’ intellect and braveness which wholly contributed to the
formation of this sole group;
To their following parents whose endless nagging paved way to the eight of them to
create something out of scratch, something the proponents would be proud of once they look
back;
To Mr. Edgar Delalamon, their professor in Communication, Culture and Society for
his endless words of advice, encouragement, and support;
To the Juan D. Nepomuceno Center for Kapampangan Studies for providing the
researchers a place to inject their thoughts; and
To the accommodating constituents and authorities of Barangay Sapang Bato,
Angeles City, acting as the sole focus of this study along with the researchers’ endeavor in
relation to it which had made them equally eager towards embracing knowledge and wisdom
by immersing themselves outside the four corners of the classroom.

Dedication
Let us put our hearts with nature
Even if it’s just for a moment in our lives
Let us all be mature
Even for their sake, let’s strive
Let’s make it all better
You, me, they and us are living
We are all feeling
Having that thing, "emotions"
Looking at the cautions
And yes, there is pain
Not us humans only
Consider everything
The plants we bury
The animals that stopped from breathing
The air, the water we drink and the land we're roaming
Can we see the future?

Yes, and it’s dying
What we do doesn't nurture
We left them hanging
Waiting for their end
We have our hands to hold protection
We have our hearts to not give up
We have our brains to think for an action
We have already done it
So now, let us cherish what we have

Abstract
“Water Shortage: Lessons from the Sapang Bato Experience” is a qualitative research
in the exploratory approach which involved five (5) informants: four (4) constituents and one
(1) authority from the locality of Barangay Sapang Bato which in turn had been declared
“under a state of calamity” due to its terrain amassing widespread water shortage or
inadequacy of water supply. Corollary to this, the researchers likewise looked into the factors
that is equipped inside the study’s lain objectives which enabled them to come up with a
conclusion inclined with communication protocol and information dissemination, which will
be utterly utilized for the construction of a specified Public Relations plan. With the aid of
literary readings, one will be able to understand and further grasp the gravity of water
scarcity in the needs and development of a certain community. Hence, the study is deemed
effective in terms of its explorations on the factors which both strengthened and acted as
indicators of weaknesses that the locality can seek to improve.

Table of Contents
Page
Title Page 1
Acknowledgement 2
Dedication 3
Abstract 5
Table of Contents 6
List of Figures 9
Chapter
I. Introduction
Background of the Study 10
Review of Related Literature and Studies 13
Statement of the Problem 17
Research Paradigm 19
Significance of the Study 22
Scope and Delimitation 22
Limitations of the Study 23
II. Methodology
Research Design 25
Participants 25
Instrument 26
Procedure 26
Data Analysis 27
Ethical Considerations 28
III. Results
Water Shortage as understood by Residents and Authorities
On the root cause of Water Shortage 29
On the occurrence of Water Shortage 30
On the mediation of authorities 31
The role of communication in the mitigation and resolution of the problem
Communication materials 32
Informants’ awareness 32
Action taken for the alleviation and further elimination of 34
the problem
Gaps found in the study as foundation for the conceptualization of a 35
Public Relations plan
IV. Discussion
Conclusion 38
Recommendation 39
References
Appendices
Curriculum Vitae
List of Figures
Figures Page
1 Paradigm of the Study 19
“Today's leaders are forced to grapple with so many threats and uncertainties coming from all
different directions, it can be tempting to bury our heads in the sand, ostrich-style.”
from Scenarios from the Future of Water in South Africa by World Wildlife Fund (2017)
Water is one of the basic necessities of people in their daily living (UNESCO, 2008).
Although considered as a colorless, tasteless, transparent, and almost odorless substance, it
vehemently aids to the forbearance of man on earth. Hence, with almost 70% of the earth’s
surface covered in nothing but said abundant fluid (UNESCO, 2008), its utter significance
and/or lasting impact in the prevalence of almost all sectors of society remains
unquestionable. Yet it is also worth noting how with the said percentage, only 2.5% can be
considered fresh water that is allotted to living organisms (e.g. man) and their varying
activities.
With the fast-rising population amassed by several countries across the globe, an
additional supply of water is required to satisfy the needs of the three billion people that
would add to the current number of seven billion in 2050 (UNDESA, 2015). In adherence to
this, overpopulation aided with overconsumption and [the] vast changing of climate all
contribute to the fluctuating of potable, consumable water among others (Rola, 2017). In
addition, there is a huge chance that the people affected, mostly in the developing countries,
are already experiencing poor water service (Lloyd, 2010). Likewise was the state of two
villages in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines.

Two barangays in the municipality of Angeles City were declared “under a state of
calamity” by the Angeles City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council
(ACDRRMC) in February 2018 (PNA, 2018). Barangay Sapang Bato along with Barangay
Margot were experiencing a series of water interruption/s at the time, due to the acute
shortage of water supply, urging the locality to take necessary measures in direct response to
the issue at hand. The said shortage was then resolved recently with sufficient water supply
flowing through the households of the affected constituents.
It is in this circumstance that the role of communication is deemed crucial to the
addressment, alleviation and further elimination of certain crises and/or situations.
Communication in this aspect, entails a conversation between the authorities and the persons
involved, with the former acting as mediators as well as messengers of information (Mbui,
2007).
With Sapang Bato being one of the villages gravely affected by said inadequacy of
water supply, it is of palpable concern and observation that the researchers tackle the state of
information circulation and/or dissemination instigated all throughout the situation
aforementioned. This will aid the researchers in finding out the root of the problem and/or
reason of occurrence of said water shortage as well as the specific solution and/or mitigation
implemented by the locality and/or authorities. As the village in retrospect had recently
surpassed a calamity detrimental to the needs and development of those affected, the
challenge of proper and adequate relaying of information will be unraveled in the Sapang
Bato experience. Akin to an ostrich burying its head when impending danger comes, through
this study will the researchers be able to grasp as well as understand what had happened in
those times of uncertainty.

Time and time again had it been already established how water is duly essential for
social growth, justice and welfare regardless of the current standing an individual has in this
society. With Mohan (2003) describing the valuable element as “the milk of Mother Earth,”
the inadequacy or lack thereof an ample, sufficient supply of potable water proves to be
detrimental to the ascent of mankind as a whole.
With that being said, water shortage then is an indication of the general scarcity of
good-quality water which usually leads to the emergence of a crisis (Jain & Singh, 2010).
Crisis in that stead pertains to a turning point, usually leading to the utter downfall of a
specified situation (Mbui, 2007).
Heeding all these in mind, several factors contribute to the said crisis and/or state of
calamity according to Jain & Singh (2010), one of which being the rapid increase of
population and economies. The immense growth of population is said to have a tremendous
impact on society and is one of the primary factors that contribute to water shortage, all
because of the increasing demands of man and the rapid depletion of resources (Garthwaite,
2019). It is also worth noting how the once abundant flow of water amongst other needed
resources for human sustenance is now an imperative, most especially for people in
developing countries and/or war-stricken ones as well as those living in the warmest of
climates:
1. In the Western Cape Province of South Africa, the issue of water shortage and/or
scarcity is not new because of the Mediterranean climate of winter rainfall and
hot, dry summers (Sorensen, 2014). Yet the people of Cape Town were verily
alarmed when it was announced in January of the previous year how they were
“three months away from running out of municipal water, three months away
from ‘Day Zero’” (Alexander, 2019);
2. Water supply in Libya has become more problematic because of the continual
increase in population as well as the effects of low rainfall (Wheida & Verhoeven,
2006); meanwhile
3. The people in Palestine were experiencing severe water crisis due to lack of control
over the water resources (Zahra, 2001). Water resources in the Middle East at the
time were limited, secured, and threatened which had led to the average per capita
of water availability reaching an all-time low.
Amidst all these crises and/or situations which are in direct correlation with the
inadequacy or shortage of water arose certain mitigations constituted by the authorities or
those in charge:
1. In direct response to the “Day Zero” which is considered as the “largest drought-
induced municipal water failure in modern history,” the ninety-day countdown
before the end was effectively utilized by both the locality and the affected
constituents (Alexander, 2019). Conservation efforts and appropriate
communication protocol were established, focusing on prohibitions and/or
restrictions of water usage for non-essential purposes (e.g. swimming, car wash,
etc.). Farmers, according to Alexander (2019) also agreed to “divert additional
water stored for agricultural purposes to the city”;
2. After the discovery of fresh groundwater in the deserts of southern Libya, the local
authority has made efforts to address the water crisis, mainly through the
implementation of “The Great Manmade River Project” to sustain its economy
(Wheida & Verhoeven, 2006). The said irrigation project consisted of a network
of pipes that supply water to the Sahara [in Libya], from the Nubian Sandstone
Aquifer System (JICA, 2010); and
3. In Palestine, several dialogues were initiated by the authorities and the constituents
in order to come into a decision duly favored by both parties. This had led to
steady improvements initiated by the Palestinian government towards the
providing of potable water to the constituents, especially those in the sub-regions,
although not all were granted (UNDESA, 2015).

The circumstances aforementioned further attest on how with the right, appropriate
system and/or protocol, a crisis can be alleviated or eliminated one way or another (Mbui,
2007). Inasmuch as there is a persisting problem and/or issue, with the right tools, proper
communication as well as research on the setting and on the people affected, a solution will
be established and further implemented.

After a detailed concentration on the Literary Foundation, it is then of utter
significance to address the objectives of the study. In line with this, the water shortage will be
generally defined as the foundation and/or backbone of the study.
The researchers aim to understand how the water shortage in Sapang Bato took place
as well as the reason for its occurrence in the locale. This can be achieved by distinguishing
the communication protocol and strategy utilized by the authorities in the disseminating of
information to the affected constituents. Specifically, the researchers sought to answer the
following questions:
1. How is the problem of water shortage understood by the (a) residents and the (b)
authorities in terms of its:
1.1 root cause;
1.2 occurrence; and
1.3 the mediation [of the authorities]?
2. How was the role of communication applied in the mitigation and resolution of the
water shortage in the perspective of (a) the residents and (b) the authorities through
the:
2.1 communication materials used/utilized;
2.2 informants’ awareness; and
2.3 action/s taken in the alleviation and further elimination of the
aforementioned problem?
3. How will the gaps found in the study be filled in as a support or foundation for the
conceptualization and further formation of a Public Relations plan?
Heeding all these in mind, a clear, concrete direction is duly needed for the
researchers to understand where they are headed with their research undertaking. Hence a
conceptual framework is made serving as a guide throughout the study, as seen in the next
section.
INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT
Criteria on Key Informants Data collection through the

 Way of living must be conducting of unstructured
in line with daily usage in-person interviews with
of water the local residents and
 Must be permanent figure/s of authority that met
residents of the locale the study’s criteria in
 Must be people directly Sapang Bato
affected by the
calamity
 Must be a mediator of
said problem (for Tools utilized in the
authorities) preservation of data: (1)
voice recorder, (2) pen and
Level of Communication paper Results that can be utilized
Level 1 as an approach for the
1.1 Frequency of conceptualization and
Dissemination further establishing of a
1.2 Level of Awareness Transcription of collated Public Relations plan
1.3 Effectivity of Message data
Level 2
2.1 Frequency of
Dissemination Thematic analysis in the
2.2 Level of Awareness examination of data through
2.3 Effectivity of Message coding method
Level 3
3.1 Frequency of
Dissemination
3.2 Level of Awareness
3.3 Effectiveness of
Message
Figure 1. Paradigm for Water Shortage: Lessons from the Sapang Bato Experience
Figure 1 is a graphic representation of the concept pursued in the study. It presents an
overview of the factors considered as the bases for the research undertaking. It was
specifically designed to determine the state of information and how it was sent to the
informants and/or affected constituents in the target setting. To achieve the researchers’ goal,
this conceptual framework will serve as a guide in answering the research problems.
In the conceptual framework, the researchers followed the Input-Process-Output
(IPO) model. The input of the study includes a profile of the key informants from Sapang
Bato in terms of their Way of Living, in which their line of work must be in direct relation
with daily consumption of water. Aside from being an inhabitant of the said locality, other
factors to consider for the profile are whether or not the chosen people were directly affected
by the calamity. When it comes to the authorities, they must be a mediator of [the] said
problem.
The Input also shows the Level of Communication numbers 1, 2 & 3 that can help the
researchers to further understand the common responses. Level of communication number 1
states that the informant did not receive any information (Never), is unaware about the
problem (Not Aware) and thinks that the message was sent unsuccessfully (Not Effective).
Level of communication number 2 asserts that the informant only collects the information
every now and then (Sometimes), is conscious about the problem (Aware) and thinks that
message was sent successfully (Effective). Level of communication number 3 explains that
the informant obtains information constantly (Always), is more acquainted with the problem
(Very Aware), and that the message was conveyed effectively (Very Effective).
The process part involves the collection of data and gathering of evidence from the
informants. This is acquired through the interview proper, notes taken from the discussion,
voice recording of the responses based from the interview questions and the translation of the
transcriptions.
The last component of the framework is the output. The output projects the outcome
of the paper which concerns itself on the utilization of the results to the conceptualization of
a Public Relations plan.

Significance of the Study
The findings on the Sapang Bato experience may be an eye opener for educators and
researchers alike, particularly in their attempts toward the prevention of this state of calamity
(water shortage) from occurring again amidst the setbacks.
The study of the researchers also aims to be beneficial and will serve its purpose as a
probable basis to the officials in the said village of Sapang Bato. This will enable them to
execute proper promotion or intervention for their programs; for it to reach the constituents
of said barangay.
As a whole, the study may also serve as a model to future researchers, as this will be
of reference in their intentions of further analyzing the depths of water shortage in the said
area as well as the role of communication protocol and information dissemination in
instigating societal awareness.
Scope and Delimitation
With the study at hand being exploratory in nature, it focuses only on inferring how the
said water shortage came into emergence. This can be achieved by distinguishing the
communication protocol and strategies utilized by the authorities or by the people in-charge,
as well as the materials used in terms of information dissemination—if there are any. That
includes the interventions that will be derived from the obtained data from the selected
participants.
Limitations of the Study
With the researchers simply acknowledging reality, certain limitations are established
in terms of:
Access. As this study entails both the perspective of the mediators and the affected
constituents, the researchers were denied access in gathering information
from the sole organization deemed in charge for the said crisis. Nevertheless, this
limitation did not halt the researchers’ progress as they were able to gather
participants and information that fully satisfied their set criteria as well as the study’s
objectives respectively.
Ventured sectors. Specific sectors (e.g. business, agricultural, etc.) were not amplified
due to the study primarily focusing on the Sapang Bato experience, wherein the
researchers’ inquiries are on the occurrence of water shortage as well as on the
communication protocol and strategies utilized.
Population sample. With the researchers utilizing purposive or judgmental sampling
in the selection of participants for the study at hand, the collection of data from the
entire population is out of context. Nevertheless, adequate information and/or

responses from the participants were still gathered which are of tremendous help to
the inquiries and/or objectives of the study.

Methodology
Research Design
With the aims of this research targeted on the identification as to why water shortage
occurred as well as the role of communication in the mitigation and further resolution of the
issue at hand, the research design used is exploratory in nature. It stems from the fact that the
researchers accentuated their focus on the utter gaining of information as well as insights that
can be utilized for further research in direct correlation to the study at hand (Cristobal &
Cristobal, 2017). Through this lens will [the] researchers be able to gain knowledge towards
an unstudied phenomenon.
The principal purpose of the researchers towards conducting the study also ascertains
the current status of communication protocol and information dissemination in the locale, so
that the researchers may use the findings to develop a set of interventions that will aid to the
conceptualization of a Public Relations plan.
Participants
As the major concern accentuates on the Sapang Bato experience, purposive or
judgmental sampling is used that determined four of the residents affected as well as one
official in the locale. These selected participants are deemed instrumental by the researchers
as they were able to provide the needed data that satisfied the research questions as well as
the set criteria, in which their (1) way of living and/or line of work must be in line with a
daily consumption of water; they (2) must be permanently residing within the locale; (3)
people directly affected by the said calamity; lastly, (4) authority must be a direct mediator of
said problem.
Instrument
As this research is qualitative in nature, the utilization of unstructured in-person
interview is deemed effective in terms of depth in gathering the necessary data. Moreover,
this type [of interview], although complicated in nature, naturally enhances the quality of
data as it provides opportunity for the respondents to ponder on the questions given, thus
leading to well-thought responses (Cristobal & Cristobal, 2017). Hence, nineteen (19)
questions were raised in the conducted interviews with selected informants which are in line
with the research questions.
Procedure
Subsequently, the approval of the informants on their active participation to the study
was also placed into a fair and just agreement amongst both parties. This had led to the actual
proceeding of the unstructured in-person interview that is adherently needed for the data
collection.
In regards of the said interview, the five (5) selected participants were approached by
the researchers and were briefed on the objectives of the said study. An estimated duration of
ten minutes was allotted for the interview proper.
Data Analysis
In terms of the analysis and coding of the given data, thematic analysis is taken into
consideration and was utilized throughout the coding proper. Furthermore, three levels of
communication were formed to find the commonalities as well as further understand the
common responses.
Level of communication number 1 states that the informant did not receive any
information (Never), is unaware about the problem (Not Aware) and thinks that the message
was sent unsuccessfully (Not Effective). Level of communication number 2 asserts that the
informant only collects the information every now and then (Sometimes), is conscious about
the problem (Aware) and thinks that message was sent successfully (Effective). Level of
communication number 3 explains that the informant obtains information constantly
(Always), is more acquainted with the problem (Very Aware), and that the message was
conveyed effectively (Very Effective).

Ethical Considerations
In light of the research undertaking are the ethical issues the researchers have to keep
in mind whilst conducting in-person interviews in compliance with their method. Hence, the
proponents have seen to it that they follow these ethical considerations within the whole
process of data collection:
Informed Consent. Before the data-gathering proper, the researchers heeded
permission from the respondents in each of the sections mentioned in the method if they are
willing to participate in the said study. Aside from that, the researchers thoroughly explained
the impacts of answering the said survey questionnaire and how it will be of tremendous help
to the researchers’ gathering of coherent, accurate data along the process, as well as the
nature of the said research undertaking.
Confidentiality and Disclosure of Harm. The proponents of the study had ensured
each of the five (5) participants the disclosure of the information they wish to share whilst
answering. Also, the researchers had ensured no harm would come to the participants whilst
giving their responses.
Inclusivity. The researchers considered and made sure that the chosen participants
have the mental capacity to make an informed decision about whether to take part or not.
Result
Both residents and authorities of Barangay Sapang Bato are categorized as due
informants, wherein five (5) respondents were selected based on the criteria previously
mentioned in certain sections of the study. With the participants hailing from Purok 1 to
Purok 6 of the aforementioned locality, Informant A then is a jeepney driver, Informant B is a
vendor from Purok 1, Informant C is a mother from the same purok as B, and Informant D is
a mother from Purok 6. Meanwhile, Informant E is a councilor in Barangay Sapang Bato,
acting as the authority and/or mediator in the study.
The responses of all informants are in due accordance to their alignment with the
stated objectives of the study:
1. Water Shortage as understood by the residents and authorities
1.1 On the root cause of Water Shortage
In accordance with the statements of the residents, Informant A stated that the water
shortage in the said barangay started last 2017 wherein frequent interruptions occurred with
them having no access to running water, whilst Informant B said that they have been
experiencing the interruption for a very long time with varying intensities. As Informant C
has rendered no response about how the said crisis came into emergence, Informant D on the
other hand explained that the crisis began last 2019 in the entirety of the summer season, yet
it did not come to a certain point where they had to resort to extreme means just to acquire
sufficient water supply. Under the authorities, Informant E stated how it has been two years
since the community first encountered water shortage. Heeding that in mind, water is
necessary to all socio-economic development and for maintaining the ecosystem, but the
population keeps on growing and the needs of the people for the supply is also increasing not
just for human use, also for domestic, agriculture, and industrial section that’s why water
shortages occur (World Water Day, 2017).
1.2 On the occurrence of Water Shortage
Based on the responses made by the residents in the study, Informant A stated that
the water shortage was experienced all throughout the summer of 2019, which happens every
Saturday evening up until Sunday morning spanning from two to three (2-3) hours, yet no
complaints were made. On the contrary, Informant B said that the water interruptions usually
occur in the morning for five to six (5-6) hours in a week as they only acquire water through
water tanks. Complaints were also filed in the stead of Informant B but they remained
unanswered all throughout and/or the entire duration of said state of calamity, according to
the informant himself. Whilst Informant C only specified that they get rations from water
tanks, Informant D explained that they usually experience water interruptions everyday
before by ten o’clock in the evening lasting up until two o’clock in the morning (10 pm-2
am). As specified under the authorities, Informant E stated that the water shortage had
occurred all day. The sole reason for this is the fact that some of the water trucks cannot
accommodate all households affected within the locale.
1.3 On the mediation of authorities
Informant A mentioned how the barangay hall had provided ram pumps as temporary
aid to the inadequate water supply. Afterwards did the members of the barangay alongside
the water district install new water tanks as primary solution to the problem at hand. The
locals then, according to Informant A, had deemed the plans made by the authorities as
effective due to the flow of water eventually coming back in good condition.
On the contrary, Informants B, C, and D did not mention any ram pumps within the
area as the locality, in accordance with their points of view, had only administered the
distribution and rotation of water trucks as temporary aid to the dwindling water supply. In
relation to this, the installation of new water tanks and pumping machines for the proper
supply of water in the affected areas was also the main priority.
In this stead did Informant E focus on how the barangay officials had coordinated
with the incumbent mayor at the time as well as with the authorized water district. Water
trucks were sent to supply locals and/or constituents with water for the day. They also
provided and/or distributed 500ml bottled water to each of the residents.

2. The role of communication in the mitigation and resolution of the problem
As claimed by the residents and authorities in the study, Informants A and B
mentioned how the local government/barangay hall roamed around the said village and
conducted announcements to notify the residents about the slated water interruptions which
would usually start from nine o’clock in the morning to twelve o’clock in the afternoon. The
informants also said that the local government/barangay hall had disseminated information or
any news in correlation with said interruption by posting printed papers at the affected areas.
Contrary to the statements of the former, Informants C, D, and E duly explained that
the local government/barangay hall never had any type of announcement conducted and/or
notified in regards with said water shortage. They further attested how there were no prior
announcements of the said state of calamity as the informants only became aware of its
existence after they had experienced it firsthand.
2.1 Communication Materials
Informant A uttered how the local government conducted announcements by posting
printed papers around the locale, whilst Informants B, C, and D expressed that they never
received any. Yet as claimed by the authorities, Informant E stated that they conducted and/or
disseminated [a] few announcements as well as leaflets to the locals.

2.2 Informants’ Awareness
Informant A was always informed and the messages disseminated by the authorities for
him/her were deemed effective, yet s/he asserts how the locals aside from himself were
unaware of the interventions implemented by the authorities in response to the said crisis.
Meanwhile, Informant C was also well-acquainted with the announcements made by the
authorities, with the messages also being deemed as effective. In correlation to this, the
resident had also been aware of the situation all throughout the duration of said crisis.
Informants B and D on the other hand were not informed, therefore instituting the
messages as ineffective. In accordance to this, they were also unaware of plans for mitigation
and/or further alleviation of the local government/barangay hall in regard to the crisis at
hand. Yet based on the statements of the authorities, Informant E expressed how they do not
usually conduct announcements on sudden and/or short-term interruptions. The reason for
this is their consideration on how long each repair would take (duration): the authorities
allow ample time for the repairmen from the designated water district to fix certain
complications; if two (2) days had already passed and [it] has yet to turn back into its normal
state, that is when the barangay officials would heed matters into their own hands and relay
messages of the prolonged interruption. Hence they had only provided regular
announcements in terms of supplying locals with water as well as if there will be an extended
period of water interruption in the whole area or in a certain purok.

2.3 Action taken for the alleviation and further elimination of the problem
Providing a reliable water supply network is one of the primary goals of municipal
water authorities facing the issue of combining a seasonally based water requirement with a
supply that is impacted by weather (Griffin and Mjelde, 2000). Heeding that in mind,
Informant E mentioned how they composed a letter addressed to the incumbent City Mayor
at the time, requesting for a new water tank for a certain water district had officially cut their
water supply to Clark, Pampanga. The officials stated they were only informed that the
Angeles City Water District (ACWD) was the establishment that has been supplying them
water all along. It just so happened that the ACWD has had a contract with said water district
in Clark that is why the constituents of Sapang Bato were acquiring their supply of water in
the latter [water] district. They also requested to connect their water system to the ACWD for
them to amass a significantly better water supply.
On the other hand, the water tanks deemed as the primary aid for the further
elimination of said crisis were already installed before Informants A, B, C, and D knew about
it. The informants only became aware of the newly-installed tanks and its due existence after
they were able to amass a steady flow of water.

3. Gaps found in the study as foundation for the conceptualization of a Public Relations
plan
In accordance with the affirmation made by the residents and figure of authority in
the study, they had displayed varied responses to the researchers’ stated inquiries. Certain
discrepancies were found in the results in terms of [the] water shortage and its (1) root cause,
(2) occurrence, (3) mediation of the authorities, (4) the communication materials used, (5)
informants’ awareness, and (6) the action taken to the alleviation and further elimination of
said issue, [all] because of the unclear and inexact information given by the participants in
the study. This is due to the improper dissemination of information to the constituents
sampled in this research.
The officials were not able to provide and further utilize communication tools and
effort that can help in spreading warning and awareness to the people. The action made by
the authorities led to the lack of awareness of locals in their community. Another discrepancy
that can affect the research is the inconsistency of details . The answers of the informants are
contradicting from each other especially between the residents and the authorities and
because of that, it duly affected the uniformity of data. The importance of consistency in
data is that it prevents the study from encountering imprecise information that can eventually
put a gap in the research especially if it exhibits a large volume of data . Inconsistencies are
inevitable at any piece of knowledge content and from different types of associating aspects
once taken in big data. Inconsistencies can also convey negative and unfavorable impacts on
the quality of data if not managed correctly (Zhang, 2013)
With all the laid discrepancies, the focus of the supposed public relations plan
will revolve on the following aspects:
Information dissemination. As stated in the second statement of the problem, a big
portion of informants were unaware about the actions of the authorities and the
condition of their community.
Communication Tools. It was explained in the communication materials part of the
results the insufficiency of print outs, announcements and other visually mediated
information to the rest of the informants in the area. This contributed to the
inadequate understanding of residents about the water crisis.This disparity needs to be
given utmost focus because it affects the role of communication which is to inform
people about a certain topic. Another one is it will help the residents to comprehend
and be conscious about their surroundings. This will also give them the opportunity to
be involved and impart assistance as a citizen of the locality. Lastly, this will help in
the utter prevention of widespread disinformation in a community.

Consistency of Details. In accordance to the first and second statement of the
problem, all the subtopics mentioned in the results had exhibited varying statements
from all the informants. Most of the responses were uncertain, especially between the
side of the residents and the side of the authorities who displayed conflicting claims
about the water shortage. The proposed Public Relations plan will also focus on this
disparity as it is also a product of the improper relaying of information. These
inconsistencies will only cause negative effects on the study specifically in the
collection and verification of details. This also has a big impact on the modern world
as it can produce disinformation and will prevent the truth from prevailing. Hence it
is heavily considered by the researchers at hand as a serious problem that requires
maximum attention.
Focusing on the aforementioned inconsistencies will not only serve as basis for the
conceptualization and further formation of an effective Public Relations plan, but shall also
heed importance to the betterment of the community as disinformation and certain crises
nowadays are bound to go hand in hand.

Conclusion
Based from the responses given by the informants from Sapang Bato and through the
findings of the study, the following conclusions were drawn:
1. All the informants had distinct information in terms of the preciseness of the details. They
stated different back-stories about the root cause of the problem and also various experiences
of sudden water interruptions within their area.
2. The authorities within the locale (e.g. Barangay Councilor) asserted that all possible means
of distributing information were utilized within their power were used. Whilst most of the
informants explained that the authorities provided announcements and posters, these
communication tools were deemed ineffective for it did not duly inform the majority within
the locale. The message and/or information was not processed dutifully and appropriately for
it is only being disseminated to the constituents occasionally.
All the aforementioned factors resulted for the majority of the constituents in the
village of Sapang Bato to be unaware of the crisis and/or state of calamity that had transpired
as well as mediated actions that were constituted by the authorities and/or locality at the time.
Although Barangay Sapang Bato was able to overcome inadequacy and/or shortage of water
supply, the role of communication had left little satisfaction to the people affected. If it were
only conveyed properly, then the informants would not have any complaints and/or issues as
stated in the results.

Recommendations
The aforementioned findings and conclusions enabled the researchers to offer the
following recommendations:
1. For future researchers to pursue follow-up studies on the research at hand, possibly
extending it to that of a quantitative research. This method will provide statistical and
numerical analysis of the gathered data with the assistance of the qualitative case study.
2. For future researchers whose aim and/or objective is to delve further on the water shortage
as well as the information dissemination conducted in the locale aforementioned.
3. For the school, this study will be of utmost benefit to the academic institution (Holy Angel
University) with new, factual information on the implementing of (1) communication
protocol, (2) information dissemination as well as (3) the prevention of another calamity
similar to the subject at hand to occur [again].
4. For those interested to delve on other sectors of concern (e.g. business, agricultural, etc.)
in relation to the study at hand for them to understand various perspectives as well as gather
new set of data.

Reference
A. Books & Journals
Cristobal A. P. & Cristobal, M. C. (2017). Practical Research 1 for Senior High School.
Quezon City: C&E Publishing, Inc.
Enochs, K. (2016). Study: Asia at Risk for Serious Water Shortages. California, USA: Silicon
Valley & Technology.
Jain F. & Singh, T. (2010). Challenges for sustainable urbanization: A case study of water
shortage and water environment changes in Shandong, China. Procedia
Environmental Sciences, 13, 919-927. doi:10.1016/j.proenv.2012.01.085
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. (2008). UNESCO World
Development Plan. France: UNESCO.
Wheida, E., & Verhoeven, R. (2006). An alternative solution of the water shortage problem
in Libya. Water Resources Management, 21(6), 961-982. doi:10.1007/s11269-006-
9067-6
World Wildlife Fund. (2017). Scenarios from the Future of Water in South Africa. South
Africa: WWF.
Zahra, B. A. (2001). Water crisis in Palestine. Desalination, 136(1-3), 93-99.
doi:10.1016/s0011-9164(01)00169-2
B. Websites
Garthweite, L. (2019). “Stanford researchers explore the effects of climate change on water
shortages,” Retrieved July 25, 2019, from
https://news.stanford.edu/2019/03/22/effects-climate-change-water-shortages/
Lloyd, M. (2010). “Global water scarcity Risks and challenges for business,” Retrieved July
27, 2019, from awsassets.panda.org/downloads/lloyds_global_water_scarcity.pdf
Rola, A. (2017). “Water crisis in Ph: Scarcity amid abundance,” Retrieved July 27, 2019,
from http://faspselib.denr.gov.ph/sites/default/files//170111_Malaya_Water crisis in
Ph_Scarcity amid abundance.pdf
United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs. (2015). “World Population
Projected to Reach 9.7 Billion By 2050,” Retrieved July 25, 2019, from
http://www.un.org/en/development/desa/news/population/2015-report.html
Unstructured In-person Interview

for Residents and Figures of Authority in Barangay Sapang Bato, Angeles City
SOP 1
1. When did the said water shortage start?
2. From up until what day(s) and/or time did you usually experience said water interruption?
3. To whom did you usually consult or coordinate when you were experiencing a series of
water interruption?
4. How were you able to acquire a clean water supply at the time?
5. Was there a time that you filed a complaint in accordance with said issue in retrospect?
6. Was there any contingency or emergency plan made that focuses on the alleviation and
further resolving of given crisis?
7. If yes, what exactly was the plan implemented?
8. Has the response made by the authorities deemed [as] effective? If not, why and at what
clause?
SOP 2
9. Were you given any announcements or warnings beforehand [in preparation for the water
shortage]? If not, how were you able to get a hold of such information?
10. Were there any leaflets, pamphlets and other communication tools distributed to provide
people with more knowledge about the present condition of their area as well as in further
announcements of water interruptions? If not, why?
11. Were you aware of the water shortage that occurred in your area? If not, why?
12. How did you become aware of said water shortage?
13. Did you learn about the crisis the moment it started to become serious or was it
announced in advance by the local government? If not, why?
14. Is there a particular person who informed your area about the impending water
interruption?
15. If there is someone, who and what was his/her position? If none, how were you able to
get a hold of such information?
16. During those times, who usually informs the people about the interruption?
17. How was the solution aforementioned communicated to the residents? In what ways?
18. How was the crisis solved? In what ways?
19. What solutions did the authorities resort to and/or have done to solve and eventually
eradicate the issue of water shortage?

Curriculum Vitae | Mia Grace D. Malit
EDUCATION
2018-2022 Holy Angel University Tertiary Studies
2016-2018 Holy Angel University Senior High School
2012-2016 Chevalier School Junior High School
2006-2012 Chevalier School Elementary
2004-2006 Chevalier School Pre-School (K & P)
2003-2004 Tabun Daycare Center Pre-School (N)
PERSONAL EXPERIENCES
2019-2020 The Nexus, News Editor
2018-2019 The Nexus, Editorial Staff
2016-2017 The Angelicum, Correspondent
ADDRESS 2015-2016 The Clarion, Editor-In-Chief
CS HighQciety, Captain – General Information
MetroGate Subd., Brgy.
2013-2015 The Clarion, News Editor
Mining, Angeles City CS HighQciety, Member
2011-2012 The Junior Clarion, Copyreader
CONTACT NO. 2008-2011 The Junior Clarion, Literary Editor
+63 920 551 8153
E-MAIL EXTRA-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE

malitmiagrace@gmail.co 2016 UP Los Baños Panimanman – 3rd runner-up
m Intra-School Mural Painting Competition – Champion
NATIONALITY ACADEMIC AND SPECIAL AWARDS RECEIVED

Filipino 2018-2019 President’s Lister, 2nd Semester Year I
President’s Lister, 1st Semester
LANGUAGES
Kapampangan
Filipino
English
SKILLS
Writing
INTERESTS
History
Signature

Curriculum Vitae | Vincent Xavier R. Baluyut
EDUCATION
2012-2016 San Guillermo Archdiocesan School Junior High School
2006-2012 San Guillermo Archdiocesan School Elementary
2004-2006 San Guillermo Archdiocesan School Pre-School (K & P)
2011-2012 Rotary Club, Member
EXTRA-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE
2013 AASP Meet Chorale Competition – 4th runner-up
ADDRESS
Blk. 151 Lot 3 26 A
ACADEMIC AND SPECIAL AWARDS RECEIVED
Bacolor Ave. 2018-2019 Dean’s Lister, 2nd Semester Year I
Madapdap, Mabalacat, Dean’s Lister, 1st Semester
Pampanga
2015-2016 Excellence in Visual Arts
CONTACT NO.
+63 947 430 9036
E-MAIL
laudhum@gmail.com
NATIONALITY
Filipino
LANGUAGES
Kapampangan
Filipino
English
SKILLS
Poetry Writing
INTERESTS
Music
World Culture & History
Signature

Curriculum Vitae | Eileene D. Cunanan
EDUCATION
2016-2018 System Plus College Foundation Senior High School
2012-2016 ACNTS Junior High School
2006-2012 M. Nepomuceno Elementary School Elementary
2004-2006 Sto. Rosario Elem School Pre-School (K & P)
2003-2004 Sto. Rosario Elem School Pre-School (N)
N/A
ADDRESS N/A
28 Sandra St. Nepo
Subdivision, Angeles City, ACADEMIC AND SPECIAL AWARDS RECEIVED
2018-2019 Dean’s Lister, 1st Semester Year I
Pampanga
CONTACT NO.
+63 936 383 1525
E-MAIL
cunananeileene@gmail.co
m
NATIONALITY
Filipino
LANGUAGES
Kapampangan
Filipino
English
Signature

Curriculum Vitae | Justine D. Gabriel
EDUCATION
2016-2018 Holy Family Academy Senior High School
2012-2016 Holy Family Academy Junior High School
2006-2012 Holy Family Academy Elementary
2004-2006 Holy Family Academy Pre-School (K & P)
2003-2004 Holy Family Academy Pre-School (N)
N/A
ADDRESS 2016-2017 HFA Intrams, Volleyball Champion
100 Gereluna Street 2011-2012 HFA Intrams, Basketball Champion
Poblacion, Porac,
Pampanga
N/A
CONTACT NO.
+63 949 803 0806
E-MAIL
axelfron@yahoo.com
NATIONALITY
Filipino
LANGUAGES
Kapampangan
Filipino
English
Signature

Curriculum Vitae | Mallari, John Lloyd B.
EDUCATION
2012-2016 Pampanga High School Junior High School
2009-2012 Likha Molino Elementary School Elementary
2008-2009 Maria Mae Academy
2007-2008 St. Thomas More Academy
2005-2007 National Christian Academy Prep & Grade 1
2004-2005 Rodriguez Daycare Center Pre-School (N)
ADDRESS THEATRE
BLK 3, L 5 PH 1, Fortune Into The Woods Narrator
Ville Barangay Baliti, City Frozen King & Duke
Grease Kinickie
Of San Fernando, High School Musical Troy Bolton
Pampanga
FILMOGRAPHY
CONTACT NO. Outsider for Cinekabalen 17 by Jo Su Jake
+63 916 651 2795 Latay by Raltson Jover Noli
Project Feb. 14 by Jason Paul Laxamana Black Cloak
E-MAIL In The Name Of Love by Joel Lamangan Witness
lloydmallari04@gmail.co
RELATED FILMS
m
Nakalimutan Ko Ng Kalimutan Ka
The Day After Valentines
NATIONALITY Rainbow Sunset
Filipino
LANGUAGES
Kapampangan 2014-2015 1st Honor Grade 9
Filipino
English 2011-2012 1st Honor Grade 6
Boy Scout of The Philippines Awardee
3rd place, District Track & Field
2010-2011 Boy Scout of The Philippines Awardee

1st place Division, Track & Field
2005-2007 1st Honor Prep & Grade 1
Signature
Curriculum Vitae | Christine Dennise A. Manalili
EDUCATION
2012-2016 Holy Angel University Junior High School
2006-2012 Republic Central Colleges Elementary
2004-2006 Lourdes Sur Daycare Pre-School (K & P)
2003-2004 Sta. Trinidad Daycare Pre-School (N)
N/A
N/A
ADDRESS ACADEMIC AND SPECIAL AWARDS RECEIVED

Fiesta Community, Tabun, 2011-2012 Filipino News Writing 2nd Place
Angeles City
CONTACT NO.
+63 9473758071
E-MAIL
Plainey123@gmail.com
NATIONALITY
Filipino
LANGUAGES
Kapampangan
Filipino
English
Signature
Curriculum Vitae | Marie Diana Ocampo
EDUCATION
2012-2016 Dominican School Junior High School
2006-2012 Sto. Rosario Angeles City Elementary
2004-2006 Sto. Rita Catholic School Pre-School (K & P)
2003-2004 Sta. Rita Catholic School Pre-School (N)
2016 Dance Competition - Champion
ADDRESS ACADEMIC AND SPECIAL AWARDS RECEIVED

#288 Baidbid Porac 2018-2019 Dean’s Lister Year I
Pampanga
CONTACT NO.
+63 9735 91961
E-MAIL
dinaeocampo@gmail.com
NATIONALITY
Filipino
LANGUAGES
Kapampangan
Filipino
English
SKILLS
Photo Editor
Photography
INTERESTS
Styling
Photography
Signature

Curriculum Vitae | Aubrey P. Tayag
EDUCATION
2012-2016 Don Jesus Gonzales High School Junior High School
2006-2012 King James Christian Academy Elementary
2004-2006 Mother Shepherd Pre-School (K & P)
2003-2004 Pandacaqui Daycare Center Pre-School (N)
N/A
ADDRESS N/A
Dist 13, B-88, L-23,
Pandacaqui, Mexico ACADEMIC AND SPECIAL AWARDS RECEIVED
2018-2019 Dean’s Lister, 1st Semester
Pampanga
Dean’s Lister, 2nd Semester Year 1
CONTACT NO.
0905-193-7134
E-MAIL
breytayag@gmail.com
NATIONALITY
Filipino
LANGUAGES
Kapampangan
Filipino
English
Signature

Water Shortage: Lessons From The Sapangbato Experience

Hochgeladen von

Dokumentinformationen

Originalbeschreibung:

Originaltitel

Copyright

Verfügbare Formate

Dieses Dokument teilen

Dokument teilen oder einbetten

Freigabeoptionen

Stufen Sie dieses Dokument als nützlich ein?

Sind diese Inhalte unangemessen?

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

Water Shortage: Lessons From The Sapangbato Experience

Hochgeladen von

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

THE SAPANG BATO EXPERIENCE 1

HOLY ANGEL UNIVERSITY