Manila, Philippines – In celebration of World Water Day 2025, Maynilad Water Services, Inc. (Maynilad), together with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the National Water Resources Board (NWRB), and in partnership with 7 key other organizations honored individuals and institutions leading the charge in achieving water security and environmental sustainability.
This year’s World Water Day Philippines Awards recognized outstanding efforts from local leaders, organizations, and advocates working to protect the country’s water resources and provide more Filipinos with greater access to water and sanitation.
Safeguarding Water Sources and Ecosystems
Protecting the country’s water sources and natural ecosystems requires a collective effort from individuals, organizations, and policymakers. The Kampeon ng Lawa Award, presented by the Laguna Lake Development Authority, honored Pinky P. Tobiano, a chemist and sustainability advocate, who was recognized for mobilizing volunteers and raising awareness about the importance of preserving Laguna Lake. Pilotage Trading and Construction Inc. was also recognized for their contributions to solid waste recovery in Laguna de Bay, helping repurpose collected waste and improving the water quality.
The Kaagapay sa Tubig-Kanlungan Award, presented by the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, honored local leaders dedicated to water conservation and watershed protection, Hon. Rafael A. Tanjuatco (Mayor of Tanay, Rizal), Hon. Rodel N. Dela Cruz (Teresa, Rizal), and Hon. Sidney B. Soriano (Morong, Rizal) for their initiatives in attaining water security and environmental compliance.
Inspiring Change Through Education and Community Engagement
Education and community-driven initiatives play a vital role in promoting responsible water use. The Water Warrior Awards, led by Maynilad, honored programs that drive conservation and awareness. The MMDA Estero Rehabilitation Program and Briquettor Association of the Philippines, Inc. (BAPI) received the Water Warrior Award for Environmental Stewardship for their efforts in urban waterway cleanups and reforestation. Meanwhile, Quezon City University was awarded the Water Warrior Award for Education for integrating water sustainability principles into its curriculum and fostering environmental responsibility among its students. Leave a Nest Philippines, under the leadership of Engr. Ronezza Delos Santos was acknowledged with the EMB Agham para sa Tubig at Kalikasan Award for empowering young researchers to develop innovative water conservation solutions.
Innovating for Water Sustainability
At the forefront of policy and governance, Ramon B. Alikpala, former Executive Director of the National Water Resources Board, received the IWRM Advocacy Champion Award for his instrumental role in shaping national and ASEAN-wide water policies and championing Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in the Philippines.
The Water-Wise Award, presented by NWRB, highlighted institutions that excel in water conservation initiatives. The Judicial Academy of the Philippines was honored for its wastewater management that significantly reduced water consumption, while Pigmentex, Inc. was acknowledged for pioneering industrial water recycling efforts, minimizing thousands of cubic meters of water waste annually.
Strengthening Water Access and Community Resilience
Reliable irrigation systems and sustainable water management are essential for agricultural and rural development. The National Irrigation Administration’s Most Outstanding Irrigators Association Award recognized San Martin North Main Irrigtor’s Association, Linoan Magsaysay Communal Irrigators Association, and Bunawan Krislam Communal Irrigators Association for their excellence in managing irrigation systems, ensuring efficient water distribution in Agrarian Reform Communities (ARCs).
Exemplary water districts that have provided sustainable water services were also recognized under the Huwarang Lingkod Tubig Award by the Local Water Utilities Administration. Honorees included Metropolitan Tuguegarao Water District (Cagayan) for Luzon, Silay Water District (Negros Occidental) for Visayas, and San Francisco Water District (Agusan del Sur) for Mindanao. Meanwhile, the Kampeon ng Katubigan Award was presented by the Philippine Waterworks Associations, Inc. to Iriga City Water District for its “Tubig Para sa mga Katutubong Agta” initiative, improving water access for the Agta indigenous community. The Kabalikat sa Tubig at Kalikasan Award by Metro Pacific Water was given to Iloilo City’s Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) for its efforts in balancing urban growth with environmental sustainability.
Women Leading the Way in Water Sustainability
Recognizing female leadership in the sector especially as the Awards coincide with Women’s Month, the Women in Water Leadership Award honored Engr. Rodora N. Gamboa, Executive Director of the Maynilad Water Academy, for her contributions to advancing water education and sustainable management across the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Atty. Claudine B. Orocio-Isorena, the Deputy Administrator for Administration and Legal Affairs of the MWSS-Regulatory Office, was also recognized for advancing gender and development initiatives in the sector. Engr. Josephine B. Salazar, OIC of the Office of the Deputy Administrator for Engineering and Operations at NIA, was honored for her strategic management of water resources during the El Niño crisis, ensuring both domestic and agricultural water needs were met.
A Shared Responsibility for a Water-Secure Future
“We celebrate these 23 exceptional individuals and groups whose dedication has made a difference. From innovative conservation projects to community-led water initiatives, their efforts show that change is possible when we act with commitment and purpose. We thank you for your passion and hard work,” said Ramoncito Fernandez, President and CEO of Maynilad. “Your contributions inspire all of us to do our part in securing a sustainable water future.”
Since its inception, the World Water Day Awards has recognized 162 individuals and institutions for their unwavering commitment to ensuring a sustainable water future for the Philippines. For more information, visit World Water Day Philippines, Water Warrior Philippines, and Kubeta PH on Facebook.
