Chosen as Recipient of Manila Water Foundation’s Coop Assistance, Brgy Nabaoy Aims for Livelihood Dev't

By: Ver Esclamado

Manila Water Foundation, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Manila Water Company has chosen Brgy. Nabaoy as their new recipient of a livelihood program aimed at uplifting the quality of life in the said community. Brgy Nabaoy is the first to receive such assistance outside of Manila Water’s service zone in Metro Manila.

Together with its local subsidiary, Boracay Island Water Company (BIWC), Manila Water Foundation has formally handed over the P200,000 base capital to the multi-purpose cooperative Samahan ng Maliliit na Magniniyog at Nangangalaga ng Kagubatan ng Nabaoy (SAMMAKANA). The amount will be used to jumpstart the project initiated by the foundation to help the local community achieve quality living based on its three core programs –Water Supply and Sanitation, Water and Environmental Education, and Community Assistance and Livelihood.

According to Carla May Kim, Executive Director of Manila Water Foundation, the base capital is lent to the SAMMAKANA cooperative at zero interest. With the help of research, the amount was geared at helping the coop to boost the community’s trade specifically in coconut, sugar and rice.

Local officials headed by Nabaoy Barangay Captain Pablo Claud and SAMMAKANA Chairman Nolasco Claud gladly welcomed and thanked the initiative of helping their livelihood.

Meanwhile, BIWC COO, Ben Mañosca stated that plans are underway to help Brgy Nabaoy households in getting access to clean and potable water in line with one of the foundation’s core programs.

A number of local government officials including Sangguniang Bayan Members Wilbec Gelito and Rowen Aguirre were present during the ceremony. The officials welcomed and lauded Manila Water Foundation’s initiative.