Messages from the officials

BY VINA MEDENILLA

2023-09-18T07:00:00.0000000Z

The Manila Times

https://digitaledition.manilatimes.net/article/281715504220379

Special Feature

AS the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) celebrates its 50th anniversary with the theme “50 years of service and excellence: Honoring local water utilities administration’s legacy in building a water-secure future,” individuals from the public office have flooded the agency with overwhelming support and congratulatory messages. Philippine Water Works Association (PWWA) President Vicente Joyas commends LWUA for its relentless pursuit to break down barriers, bridge gaps, and empower individuals and communities by providing clean, safe and readily available water together with the PWWA. Joyas says: “LWUA was instrumental in influencing the water landscape in our country. This serves as a testament to the institution’s unwavering commitment to excellence over the past 50 years. Together, we work to build a world where everyone, regardless of circumstance, has access to the essential resource of clean water; thereby, fostering healthier, wealthier and more resilient communities for future generations.” Philippine Association of Water Districts (PAWD) Chairman Jose Mabulay Jr. also relays his heartfelt message to LWUA in recognition of its vital role in the successes of the local water districts. Mabulay strongly expresses his belief in LWUA’s capability to lead the country toward a more resilient water sector, driven by the adoption of technological advancements and empowerment of local utilities. Mabulay says: “This milestone is not just a reflection of your past achievements, but also a promise of the momentous work that lies ahead. PAWD has no doubts that, together, we shall honor LWUA’s legacy by leaving an indelible mark on the next 50 years of service excellence. Let us reaffirm our commitment to a sustainable, water-secure future, where no one is left behind in accessing the life-giving resource of clean water.” He adds that as the country celebrates the LWUA’s remarkable history, we must look ahead with a renewed sense of purpose, especially in the face of evolving challenges such as climate change and rapidly increasing water demands. House of Representatives Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez admires the institution’s tireless efforts in upholding every Filipino’s right to clean water and sanitation throughout its half-century journey. In his message, Romualdez reiterates the value of community involvement in water-related projects to ensure that the water systems truly cater to the needs of these communities. Romualdez notes: “A well-informed and educated public will be our greatest ally. Let us ignite the flame of awareness and kindle the spirit of conservation in every Filipino heart. Together with the policymakers, we can usher in reforms that not only encourage sustainable water use, but also pave the way for innovations in infrastructure that are both resilient and adaptive to our nation’s unique challenges.” Access to clean and safe water is an absolute human right, and no household should suffer from the risks that come with unclean water. This is what Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri believes. As a lawmaker, Zubiri affirms his support for the agency in its mission to make sure no Filipino is left behind in accessing the most basic and essential need: water. Zubiri says, with LWUA’s efforts, “we can pave the way for sustainable growth in the countryside with water access parlaying into infrastructural development, increased investments and economic gains.” From every LWUA employee to partner agencies and stakeholders, and from water districts to the communities they serve, LWUA Chairman Ronnie Ong recognizes everyone’s contributions to the collective success that propels the institution to where it is today. LWUA Administrator Vicente Homer Revil also sends his gratitude to all past and present employees, partners, supporters, stakeholders and all those who have contributed to the success of LWUA in 5 decades. As LWUA turns 50, Revil reaffirms its commitment to work tirelessly toward making clean water a fundamental right for all Filipinos, not just a privilege. Happy 50th anniversary, LWUA.

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