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 other key 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
Dr. Theresita V. Atienza, University President of Quezon City University, proudly holds up the Maynilad Water Warrior Award for Education, recognizing the university’s efforts in integrating water sustainability principles into its curriculum and fostering environmental responsibility among students.
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.
Ryan B. Jamora, Head of Maynilad Central Non-Revenue Water (leftmost); Zmel Grabillo, Head of Maynilad Wastewater Management Division (rightmost); Dr. Sevillo D. David, Jr., Executive Director of DENR-River Basin Control Office (2nd from right); and Atty. Ricky A. Arzadon, Executive Director of NWRB (2nd from left) present the award to Engr. Ronezza Delos Santos (middle) of Leave a Nest, whose initiatives empower young researchers to develop innovative water conservation solutions, driving sustainability in the sector.
Innovating for Water Sustainability
Ramon B. Alikpala receives the PWP IWRM Advocacy Champion Award for his lifelong dedication to Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). A key figure in national and ASEAN water governance, his leadership has advanced policies promoting economic efficiency, equity, and environmental sustainability, guiding the Philippines toward a more secure water future.
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
Fernando F. Tubale, President of San Martin Irrigators’ Association, proudly holds up the NIA Most Outstanding Irrigators’ Association Award in recognition of their excellence in managing irrigation systems and ensuring efficient water distribution in Agrarian Reform Communities (ARCs). Traveling all the way from Mindanao, he dedicates this honor to the hardworking farmers who cultivate the region’s rich agricultural lands, sustaining its reputation as the fruit basket of the Philippines.
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 Irrigators’ 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
(From L-R) Marie Antonette De Ocampo, Head of Corporate Affairs and Communications at Maynilad; Atty. Claudine B. Orocio-Isorena; Engr. Rodora N. Gamboa; Engr. Josephine B. Salazar; and Cybele L. Regalado, Maynilad’s Head of Supply Chain Management proudly celebrate women’s leadership in water sustainability at the World Water Day Awards 2025. In line with Women’s Month, the Women in Water Leadership Award recognized outstanding contributions to water education, governance, and resource management. Engr. Gamboa was honored for advancing water education across Southeast Asia, Atty. Orocio-Isorena for championing gender and development initiatives in the sector, and Engr. Salazar for her strategic leadership in managing water resources during the El Niño crisis, ensuring both domestic and agricultural water security.
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
Engr. Ronald Padua, VP and Head of Water Supply Operations of Maynilad, stepped in to deliver the opening speech at the World Water Day Awards 2025 in place of the company’s president. Emphasizing the urgent need for collective action in water sustainability, he stated, “This event is a call for collective action. Water and climate are deeply connected, and as we face increasing challenges—such as extreme weather events, water scarcity, and pollution—working together is more important than ever.” Holding true to this vision, the event honored individuals and organizations leading the way in water conservation, innovation, and community resilience.
“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.
You Can Be a Water Champion Too!
During the awarding ceremony, the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) and partners launched the National Volunteering Framework in the Water Sector—a call for individuals, communities, and organizations to take action in protecting the country’s water resources. PNVSCA underscored the need to intensify volunteerism in the sector to boost efforts towards water security, from water quality monitoring to watershed rehabilitation.
