PRNG, Canóvanas, PR, August 26, 2026 — The Puerto Rico National Guard continues to strengthen the operational response of the Government of Puerto Rico to the emergency caused by drought conditions affecting the island through its "Water Sentinels" mission, focused on the transport, purification, and distribution of drinking water to affected communities.
The operation is carried out in compliance with Executive Order OE-2026-036, issued by the Governor of Puerto Rico, Hon. Jenniffer A. González Colón, which ordered the activation of the National Guard to assist the Government of Puerto Rico in the tasks of water transport, distribution, and purification as part of the emergency response.
As a result of the operations carried out to date, the Puerto Rico National Guard has achieved the following cumulative results:
These results reflect the National Guard's capability to mobilize Soldiers, equipment, and specialized resources in a sustained manner, in coordination with state agencies and municipalities, to address one of the most essential needs of the affected communities: access to safe drinking water.
"The Puerto Rico National Guard is fulfilling its mission to serve our people and respond where it is most needed. To date, our Soldiers have distributed 1,015,000 gallons of water and purified 298,151 gallons as part of the response to this emergency. These figures represent much more than an operational capability; they represent our commitment to the families and communities facing the effects of the drought," said BG Carlos J. Rivera Román, The Adjutant General of Puerto Rico.
"This mission is part of the Government of Puerto Rico's effort and responds to the Executive Order from Governor Jenniffer A. González Colón, which enabled the mobilization of our capabilities to support water transport, distribution, and purification. Our Soldiers will continue to work alongside agencies and municipalities to bring this essential resource wherever it is needed. The Puerto Rico National Guard is prepared to respond, committed to serve, and always present for our people," added Rivera Román.
The Water Sentinels mission integrates the operational and logistical capabilities of the Puerto Rico National Guard, including military personnel, vehicles, and specialized water purification and distribution systems. The National Guard will continue to adjust its resources according to the needs of the emergency and will maintain coordination with agencies and municipal governments to contribute to the continuity of essential services.