The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) recognized three Irrigators Associations (IAs) as “water champions” during the World Water Day Awards on March 19, 2026, in Manila.
Recognizing Excellence in Water Management
The awards, organized by DENR, NWRB, and Maynilad Water Services, Inc., honor organizations demonstrating strides toward water and water-environment sustainability. This year’s theme, “Water and Gender,” underscored safe water and sanitation as fundamental human rights and essential components of gender equality.
Three associations received awards in distinct categories:
- National Irrigation Systems (NIS) Category: Magatos, Camoning, San Vicente Irrigators’ Association (MACASCVIA), Inc. From Asuncion, Davao del Norte, Region XI, represented by IA President Rogelio P. Dayot, Jr.
- Communal Irrigation Systems (CIS) Category: Tamia Communal Irrigators’ Association, Inc. From Compostela, Davao de Oro, Region XI, represented by IA President Roger C. Balili.
- CARP-IC Category: Colawin Pump Irrigation System Association, Inc. From Argao, Cebu, Region VII, represented by IA President Candido S. Caminero.
NIA Region XI Acting Regional Manager Engr. Dexter A. Sablaon, Institutional Development Division (IDD) Manager Martin T. Tacloban, CARP-IC IDD Acting Institutional Development Division Manager Engr. Ma. Theresa C. Lee, and other NIA representatives and IA officers attended the event.
Looking Ahead
The NIA may continue to support and recognize outstanding Irrigators Associations as part of its broader efforts to promote sustainable water resource management. Further initiatives focused on gender equality within these associations could be developed, potentially leading to more responsive and equitable water distribution systems. It is also possible that the NIA will continue to collaborate with organizations like DENR, NWRB, and Maynilad Water Services, Inc. On future awards and sustainability programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the World Water Day Awards?
The WWD.PH Awards honor champions for water and environment that made strides in achieving water and water-environment sustainability in the country.
What categories of Irrigators Associations were recognized?
The three categories were National Irrigation Systems (NIS), Communal Irrigation Systems (CIS), and CARP-IC.
Where were the awardees located?
Awardees were located in Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, and Cebu.
How might increased participation from women leaders impact water management practices?
