via GRAPHIC PLUS — Twenty-four individuals and organizations driving water conservation, environmental protection, and sustainable water management were recognized at the World Water Day Philippines Awards, held at the Diamond Hotel in Manila. Two additional honorees received the Woman in Water Leadership Award.
The annual awards, organized by Maynilad Water Services, Inc. (Maynilad) in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the National Water Resources Board (NWRB), and key stakeholders in the water sector, highlight initiatives that contribute to safeguarding the country’s water resources and strengthening collaboration across sectors.
This year’s honorees represent a wide range of efforts—from community-led water access and sanitation programs to large-scale wastewater reuse, watershed protection, and innovative technologies that improve water efficiency.
In line with the 2026 World Water Day theme of “Water and Gender,” women leaders and organizations were highlighted during the ceremony.
Among these was the Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina (KALIPI)–Donsol, Sorsogon, which leads a community enterprise that transforms plastic waste into marketable products while providing livelihood opportunities.
Outstanding Women Leaders in the Sector include Engr. Liza B. Silerio, Dr. Jessica C. Salas, and Ms. Eileen L. Dela Vega.
Meanwhile, the Woman in Water Leadership Award was conferred on Jacqueline A. Caancan and Alma L. Abrasaldo.
Also among those recognized were Greencycle Innovative Solutions Inc., whose plastic waste recovery program has helped reduce pollution in communities surrounding Laguna de Bay, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority–Flood Control and Sewerage Management Office (MMDA-FCSMO) for dredging operations at the Napindan Channel that improved water outflow and helped stabilize lake levels.
Community-based initiatives were also honored, including Water Access, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) groups in the Ipo and Kaliwa watersheds, which manage localized water supply and sanitation systems and promote proper hygiene practices in underserved areas.
Private sector and institutional leaders likewise took part in advancing sustainable water management. Okada Manila was cited for its wastewater reclamation and reuse program, while Boracay Tubi System Inc. was recognized for adopting advanced leak detection and water reuse technologies. Academic institutions such as the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA, Maria Montessori Foundation Inc., and the University of San Carlos Water Resources Center Foundation Inc. were also acknowledged for their contributions to water education, research, and planning.
Several water districts were recognized for improving service delivery and promoting sustainable practices, including Santa Maria Water District, Gingoog City Water District, Infanta Quezon Water District, and Davao City Water District.
The irrigators’ associations of Colawin Pump Irrigation System Association, Inc. (Cebu), Magatos, Camoning, San Vicente Irrigators’ Association (MACASVIA), Inc. (Davao del Norte), and Tamia Communal Irrigators’ Association, Inc. (Davao de Oro) were also honored, while local government initiatives such as Imus City’s Julian and Imus River Rehabilitation Program were cited for restoring waterways through community engagement and environmental protection efforts.
Also included among this year’s honorees are FEATR (The Fat Kid Inside Studios), Ruben Almendras, and the Laguna Lake Development Authority.
“Water management requires precision, sustained investment, and a strong commitment to future generations. By restoring watersheds and strengthening our systems, we move closer to securing our water resources for the long term,” said Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Juan Miguel T. Cuna.
“Your work inspires action and reminds us that protecting our water resources is a shared responsibility. Safeguarding water for future generations requires cooperation, innovation, and a shared sense of purpose,” said Maynilad President and Chief Executive Officer Ramoncito S. Fernandez.
The World Water Day Philippines Awards is part of the country’s annual observance of World Water Day and serves as a platform to recognize champions of water stewardship while encouraging stronger collaboration among government agencies, communities, and institutions.
