Today, March 22 is World Water Day. It is an annual United Nations (UN) observance day that highlights the importance of freshwater. The day is used to advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources.

United Nations has been observing the World Water Day every year since 1993 to create awareness about water scarcity in the world. At this point, there are nearly 2 billion people who have to sustain life without access to safe water in the world, the UN said. The theme for this year’s World Water Day is 'Groundwater, making the invisible visible'.

The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) noted that about 40% of all water used for irrigation comes from aquifers. Especially in water-scarce countries, the provision of cheap energy for pumping groundwater for irrigated agriculture can lead to groundwater depletion and declining water quality, with potentially severe consequences for those who now depend on groundwater irrigation.

Moreover, the use of fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture is a serious threat to groundwater quality, PIA added.

Water is defined as an essential nutrient because it is required in amounts that exceed the body's ability to produce it. All biochemical reactions occur in water. It fills the spaces in and between cells and helps form structures of large molecules such as protein and glycogen.

The essential nutrients in drinking water are calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. Each of these minerals raises the pH and alkalinity of drinking water, making it healthier and more alkaline.

Water keeps normal temperature. It lubricates and cushion joints. It also protects the spinal cord and other sensitive tissues. Furthermore, water get rid of wastes through urination, perspiration, and bowel movements. #RNPC-CPD