A decade of clean water flowing to poor communities

MANILA, Philippines – Marking their 10th year anniversary on Thursday, February 26, the Manila Water Foundation (MWF) celebrated its efforts in giving various communities clean water.

Aside from providing water sanitation and education systems, MWF’s continuing advocacy includes encouraging sustainable livelihood programs for a number of cooperatives, and educating groups and individuals about the different factors that contribute to the sustainability of a finite resource. 

“Much like a 10 year old we wanted to do bigger things. We wanted to expand our horizons and take our efforts nationwide.” Manila Water Foundation President Ferdinand dela Cruz said.

MWF Executive Director Carla Berina-Kim also stressed the importance of fostering lasting relationships with their partner communities. 

“More than the numbers, we are after the stories. Hearing the stories of the people we have helped is the most rewarding part of being a development organization,” she said.

Continuing programs

Some of the foundation’s programs that are expected to expand nationwide are the Global Handwashing Day, community assistance and livelihood projects and the Tubig Para sa Barangay initiative that aims to provide numerous communities with access to clean water. 

Jocela Tenido from the beneficiary community in Barangay Malabanan in Binan, Laguna described how life has become much easier since proper water systems were installed in their community. 

“Before we had to pump out of a deep well. That was hard, especially when our area would get flooded, because we would have to build a bridge just to get to be able to pump water out of the deep well,” Jocela said.

She added: “Ever since we Laguna Water was installed in our community, there was a huge difference for the people in our barangay. Now, children do not have to shower near the pump where it is so hot. It also lessens the weight of our work such as doing laundry.” 

The event also highlighted the importance of fostering stronger partnerships and alliances in order to further the same goals of providing appropriate and sustainable water systems to the Filipino people, most especially for those communities who need it most. – Rappler.com

Marianna Vargas is a Rappler intern.