A THREE-DAY conference gathered water utility providers all over the country.
Led by the Philippine Association of Water Districts, the Baguio City played host to the 2nd annual PAWD Convergence themed "Ensuring Quality Materials for Effective Water Operations."
Guest of honor and keynote speaker, Local Water Utilities Administration administrator Jeci Lapus assured a continuous support for all water utilities underlying programs for loans and amnesty ongoing to help organizations across the country.
Lapus said technical standards for all water utilities must be strengthened as well as capabilities and knowledge for all in a bid to improve services and the goal to provide clean water.
There are more than 700 water districts all over the country servicing consumers who joined the conference citing best practices, newest technology and talks on experiences were discussed with close to forty exhibitors present in the venue.
Exhibitors showed the latest products, services, and technologies available in the market that could improve the operation and maintenance of water utilities.
During the three day conference, Baguio Water District general manager Salvador Royeca led participants to Sto. Tomas Rain Basin (STRB) which resumed operation in June.
The STRB is the largest rain water catchment facility managed and operated by the BWD back in operation since being temporarily parched in March 2017.
The project totaling P92 million funded through the Department of Public Works and Highways' General Appropriations Fund, improved the holding capacity of the STRB from 592,655 cubic meters of water to an average of 700,00m3 once filled to the brim.
The facility aims to provide solutions in addressing the gap of water supply and demand in the city.
The PAWD 2018 Convergence kicked off July 24 at the Baguio Country Club, Baguio City and is described to be an opportunity for the participants to participate in knowledge sharing and exchange of best practices in water systems and operations, as well as interact with policy makers, managers, experts and water professionals.
The convergence was graced by Vicente Joyas, chairman of both PAWD Board of Governors and the Quezon Metro Water District, while Mayor Mauricio Domogan welcomed the participants.
The conference aims to gather local water service providers to discuss: common issues and concerns in product standards; trends in disinfection and chlorination; innovative fund sourcing schemes for water districts; and the latest laws and regulations related to the operations of water districts.
PAWD is the umbrella organization of all duly organized water districts (WDs) in the Philippines eying to provide sustainable, affordable, and safe water and sanitation for all.
