Manila, Sept. 16 -- The provincial government of Dinagat Islands has earmarked PHP29 million for water resource development as the island province grapples with a prolonged dry spell that has triggered a water crisis.

Provincial Planning and Development Officer George Daligdig said on Wednesday that the budget was approved Tuesday by the executive committee led by Gov. Nilo Demerey Jr. and will fund long-term water source development across municipalities.

Daligdig noted that part of the allocation will support the tapping of water from Sabang Dam in Cagdianao, following a partnership forged last week between the province and San Miguel Corp. (SMC).

"Based on the agreement with the SMC, the counterpart of the province in the tapping of...