Manila Water uses Lakbayan to bolster lobbying for water and wastewater

Through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which offers educational facility tours intended to give participants a thorough look at the company’s water and wastewater facilities, East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Through this effort, communities, partners, and stakeholders will learn the importance of water and be encouraged to use it responsibly.

Lakbayan offers a unique opportunity for participants to experience the entire water cycle: from the raw water source and treatment to distribution and wastewater management. Through guided tours of Manila Water’s state-of-the-art facilities, visitors gain firsthand knowledge of the processes that ensure safe, clean, and reliable water supply, as well as the systems that treat wastewater before returning it to the environment.

Since its inception in 2006, Lakbayan has engaged thousands of students, local government units, and private organizations, fostering a deeper understanding of the water cycle and the collective role in preserving this vital resource. In 2025, Manila Water, led by its Advocacy Managers and Facility Managers, conducted a total of sixty-five (65) Lakbayan tours, participated by 2,151 individuals.

Among the organizations who participated were the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, DILG-National Capital Region, Bureau of Fire Protection, City Government of Makati, Sangguniang Kabataan of Quezon City, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Pateros, San Agustin Seminary, University of the Philippines, Technological University of Philippines, Mariano Marcos State University, Western Mindanao State University and other public and private schools and private businesses.

“Water is a finite resource and its responsible use is a shared obligation, yet it is often overlooked,” said Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director.

“Lakbayan allows us to share the science, innovation and our dedication behind every drop. Our goal is to inspire individuals and organizations to take meaningful action, whether through simple daily habits or large-scale programs, to conserve water and protect the environment. Every effort, big or small, creates a ripple of impact,” he added.

The initiative highlights Manila Water’s support of environmental preservation and water saving. Lakbayan enables participants to become advocates for sustainability in their local communities by highlighting the intricacy and significance of water and wastewater management.

Manila Water invites everyone involved to enjoy Lakbayan. Interested parties should send an email to [email protected] for schedules and reservations.