ISAT University, lead by the National and International Affairs Office, in partnership with the Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) and Western Visayas International Relations Officers Council (WVIROC), successfully hosted an online celebration of World Water Day 2026 on March 24, 2026, with the theme “Droplets of Change: Inspiring Stories of Water Conservation in Schools Around the World.”
The activity aimed to promote awareness on the importance of water conservation and highlight the role of educational institutions in fostering sustainable practices. It also served as a platform for knowledge-sharing among partner institutions, encouraging collaboration and global engagement on environmental initiatives.
The program commenced with a welcome remarks from the OIC University President, Dr. Carmelo V. Ambut and called on everyone to act, emphasizing that change requires more than discussion. This is followed by an opening message from the Vice President for External Affairs, Dr. Juniffer B. Badoles, who emphasized the rationale of the event and the urgent need to conserve water resources in the face of growing environmental challenges.
Mr. Alfredo Tayo III, General Manager of MIWD, then delivered his message which underscored the responsibility of academic institutions to lead in sustainability efforts and inspire communities to take action.
One of the highlights of the webinar was the sharing of initiatives from participants representing partner institutions in the Philippines and various parts of the world.
• Sustaining Waters, Sustaining Fisheries: A Path to Security and Environmental Balance by: Dr. Garner Alolod from University of Antique – Tario Lim Memorial Campus, Philippines
• Fluid Literacies: Empowering the Next Generation of Students through School-led Water Advocacy by: Dr. Marjohn Thomas Conlu from ISAT U – Miagao Campus, Philippines
• The Taga-WEST Model: Scaling Localized Best Practices in Water Conservation and Resource Stewardship by: Dr. Maria Lea Escantilla-Libuna from West Visayas State University, Philippines
• Safe Drinking Water and Community Health: Evidence from Cambodia by: Mr. Sokkeang Be from University of Puthisastra, Cambodia
• Blueprint for Blue: Shaping a Sustainable Water Future though Integrated Education, Policy, and Practice at the University of San Agustin by: Dr. Sherwin Sepe from University of San Agustin, Philippines
• Water Sustainability and Global Partnerships: Empowering Communities Through Innovation and Collaboration by: Dr. Sonny Soriano from Urdaneta City University, Philippines
• Planning for Resilience: UA-LGUs Joint Initiative for Water Stewardship and Disaster Preparedness by: Dr. Rosanmi Labnao from University of Antique – Hamtic Campus, Philippines
• Blue Innovation for Water Sustainability: JBLMFU-Molo’s Solar Powered Desalination and Marine Sewage Treatment Systems by: 3/E Allan Roberto from John B. Lacson Maritime Foundation University – Molo Inc., Philippines
• Conserving Water: A STEM Project Approach to Water Quality in Greater Surakarta Schools by: Dr. Murni Ramli from Universitas Sebelas Maret, Indonesia
• Sustainable Water Conservation Research Presentations were also delivered by Madhu Mitha Kumaraveil from University of Malaya, Malaysia and Catherine Arias from Negros Oriental State University, Philippines
Each speaker presented their respective programs and practices on water conservation, showcasing innovative approaches and their positive impact on local communities and environments.
After the presentations, Ms. Edel Carmela Subong-Csoka, President of WVIROC also delivered an inspiring message encouraging participants to adopt simple yet meaningful actions in conserving water, while also inspiring institutions to develop and strengthen sustainability programs.
Through this initiative, ISAT University reaffirmed its commitment to global partnerships and environmental stewardship, emphasizing that collective efforts—no matter how small—can lead to significant and lasting change.
by: Lyza Belle A. Lagura
