PDRF seeks private sector support to address water security risks

The Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF) is seeking private sector support to address growing water security risks exacerbated by climate change, increased demand, and infrastructure deficiencies. The nonprofit launched the four-year BRIDGE Project on Tuesday, funded by the Government of Canada, to bolster water management and climate resilience in Antipolo and Baguio cities.

Businesses are encouraged to enhance water-use efficiency, minimize avoidable losses, explore water reuse options, and factor water-related risks into operational and investment strategies, according to Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna. PDRF President Rene Meily emphasized that the initiative seeks to collaborate with water concessionaires, local governments, and various partners, with a particular focus on addressing the needs of women and Indigenous peoples.

"Clean water is a right. Its availability and use are critical for both communities and businesses," Meily stated.

Antipolo Vice Mayor Roberto Puno Jr. highlighted the city's burgeoning population, which is nearing one million residents, leading to heightened demand for water and wastewater services. He further revealed that the city is grappling with resource constraints, necessitating trained personnel and comprehensive data and feasibility studies to tackle these issues.

In Baguio City, Environment and Parks Management Office head Rhenan Diwas emphasized the urgency of the city's water security concerns. He argued that while smaller, annual environmental programs can address some challenges, immediate issues like water security necessitate ambitious solutions. Diwas underscored the importance of government-private sector partnerships to tackle these critical concerns.

Manila Water President and CEO Roberto Jose Locsin urged international partners to prioritize local capacity-building to ensure investments yield lasting benefits. He called for the establishment of fundamental structures to maximize the impact of such investments beyond the grant period. Maynilad President and CEO Ramoncito Fernandez highlighted the company's ongoing efforts in collaborating with Dumagat communities on livelihood opportunities and watershed protection.

Maynilad also supports low-income communities through Samahang Tubig Maynilad and its Pag-asa sa Patubig Partnership, which focuses on expanding water access in underserved areas.