Manila Water Foundation Fuels Cebu’s Public Health
Manila Water Foundation, in partnership with Cebu Manila Water Development Inc., has handed over refrigerated drinking fountains to the Province of Cebu, strengthening its dedication to sustainability and public health. This initiative introduces refrigerated drinking fountains in key public spaces to encourage the use of reusable tumblers and reduce plastic waste.
The ceremonial turnover was attended by local officials including Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival Sr., and Vice Mayor Tommy Osmeña. Representatives from Manila Water Foundation and Cebu Manila Water Development Inc. also joined the event, alongside other government and private sector leaders.
Reducing Plastic Waste with Refrigerated Drinking Fountains
Strategically placed throughout Cebu, the refrigerated drinking fountains aim to support the city’s solid waste management efforts by encouraging residents to refill reusable containers instead of relying on single-use plastic bottles. This move not only helps the environment but also promotes healthier hydration habits by offering a refreshing alternative to sugary drinks.
Since its launch in 2023 with 72 units in Quezon City schools, the program has expanded nationwide, now boasting 249 units installed in various regions. Local leaders praised the project, with Mayor Archival stating, “This is a simple but meaningful step in promoting public health and ensuring that clean drinking water is accessible to everyone—employees and visitors alike. Initiatives like this bring government closer to the people.”
Enhancing Hygiene Facilities and Community Support
Beyond the refrigerated drinking fountains, the foundation partnered with Cebu Manila Water Development Foundation and Cebu Water to inaugurate a 10-faucet hygiene facility at Siotes Elementary School in Carmen, Cebu. This project is part of the Lingap program, which aims to improve sanitation and hygiene in communities.
The inauguration was attended by education officials, local barangay leaders, and Cebu Province Board Member Mike Villamor. Additionally, six refrigerated drinking fountains will be installed in public institutions across Carmen, including the Bureau of Fire Protection and municipal facilities.
WASH Initiatives Strengthen Schools in Danao City
In Danao City, Manila Water Foundation and Cebu Water led a Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Aralan session for three remote schools. The Lunas program included the distribution of 350 hygiene kits containing soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and shampoo, emphasizing proper handwashing and toothbrushing during Nutrition Month.
Further support came in the form of WASH donations such as water containers, bathroom cleansers, and liquid hand soap to maintain health standards on campus. Sanitary pads were also provided to assist menstrual health management at Binaliw Integrated School, Leonor Durano Zamora Elementary School, and Sandayong Norte Elementary School.
These efforts align with the Department of Education’s Brigada Eskwela and WASH in Schools programs, reinforcing the commitment to safe and healthy learning environments.
For more news and updates on refrigerated drinking fountains, visit Filipinokami.com.
