Manila Water Foundation Distributes Refrigerated Drinking Fountains
Manila Water Foundation, together with Manila Water service area teams, recently launched a vital initiative to distribute refrigerated drinking fountains across select cities in Metro Manila and municipalities in Rizal. The distribution of these refrigerated drinking fountains aims to promote hydration for better health, while tackling plastic pollution and improving solid waste management.
Community members and local leaders highlighted that the refrigerated drinking fountains will encourage the use of reusable water tumblers, significantly reducing single-use plastic bottle consumption. This eco-friendly approach supports cleaner waterways and fosters sustainable habits among students and the general public.
Strategic Handover Ceremonies Across Metro Manila and Rizal
The handover ceremonies were held at prominent educational institutions, including Taguig Integrated School in Taguig City, San Isidro Labrador Elementary School in Rodriguez, Rizal, and both the Philippine Science High School and University of the Philippines Integrated School in Quezon City. Over 60 refrigerated drinking fountains will be installed across 60 schools and public spaces, reinforcing the importance of hydration and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs in improving health and nutrition outcomes.
Promoting Sustainable Hydration and Hygiene Practices
During the ceremonies, selected learners received drinking kits designed to encourage the use of personal water tumblers. These kits were accompanied by hygiene educational posters illustrating the 7 Steps to Proper Toothbrushing and the 7 Steps to Proper Handwashing. Officials noted that such efforts contribute to reducing PET bottle usage and enhancing solid waste management in communities.
Support from Key Officials and Education Leaders
Key officials attended the events, including Rodriguez, Rizal Vice Mayor Edgardo Sison and the chief regulator of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System regulatory office, Atty. Patrick Ty. Both emphasized the critical role of regulatory and service-area support in advancing WASH initiatives. Meanwhile, Noel Balubal, head of the schools governance and operations department of the Department of Education Taguig-Pateros, expressed deep appreciation, saying that Manila Water Foundation’s WASH programs complement DepEd’s health and nutrition initiatives.
Additional Health Support Through Probiotics
In line with the Batang Matatag campaign, boxes of Erceflora probiotics were also distributed to school leaders in Marikina City and the municipalities of San Mateo and Montalban. These probiotics aim to help manage diarrheal and gastrointestinal disorders on campus, promoting overall gut health among students and staff.
Impact and Commitment to WASH Programs
The Lingap RDF Program is projected to benefit more than 500,000 learners, teachers, and staff across Metro Manila and Rizal Province by providing reliable access to safe drinking water. Community members said that this initiative not only improves health outcomes but also strengthens the foundation for sustainable water and sanitation practices.
These turnover events also mark a significant part of the Manila Water Foundation’s celebration of Manila Water’s 28th anniversary, showcasing the organization’s unwavering dedication to WASH for all communities.
For more news and updates on refrigerated drinking fountains, visit Filipinokami.com.
