FPH and First Gen president and COO Giles Puno encourages everyone with a call to action to achieve a water-secure nationExperts, private sector leaders, government officials and development partners converged at a forum organized by the Water Alliance and USAID in Makati City in October. It was an avenue to tackle and address the pressing challenges related to water security and the threats to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6): Clean Water and Sanitation.

The forum highlighted the pivotal role of the private sector in advancing water conservation, restoration and responsible management, leading to unprecedented commitments to SDG 6.

First Philippine Industrial Park (FPIP) chief commercial officer Joval Pantangco presented the company’s dedication to a circular water economy. He shared the shift in FPIP’s approach, transitioning from being simply a provider of water in the industrial park to actively managing water as a valuable resource. FPIP’s goal is to achieve a net water-positive status by 2030 while also striving for zero liquid discharge, showcasing their commitment to regenerative water management.

In her keynote address, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Sec. Toni Yulo-Loyzaga underscored the government’s commitment to protecting the environment and optimizing natural resources.

The event included a water outlook address by DENR Usec. Carlos David. He emphasized the significance of Executive Order 22, which aims to enhance coordination among key entities such as the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, the Local Water Utilities Administration and water districts.

First Philippine Holdings Corporation and First Gen Corporation president and chief operating officer Giles Puno, the chairperson of the Water Alliance, provided a call to action, challenging all attendees to rise to the occasion and collaborate wholeheartedly toward achieving water security and becoming a united force for good.

“We completely agree that partnership and collaboration will be key to addressing the complex challenge of water security. The private sector stands ready to explore new ways to collaborate with government and other stakeholders, set bold ambitions and broaden the call to other corporate entities to address the challenges of water resources management,” Puno said.

The event marked a significant step forward in addressing the issue of water security, highlighting the potential for public-private cooperation to drive positive change and secure a sustainable and water-secure future for the Philippines.

(Story/Photos by:Janbern Barel)