The Ateneo de Davao University, through its Center for Business Research and Extension (CBRE) and Social Research Training and Development Office (SRTDO), held a Research Dissemination Forum on 6 December 2024. The said forum showcased the impactful partnership between the Davao City Water District (DCWD) and Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (Apo Agua) through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP).
The forum was hosted by Languages, Literature, and Arts Department Chair Dr. Stella Marie G. Arcenas and presented two key studies. The study on “Lived Experiences of Water Consumers in District 2 of Davao City Before and After the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project” was presented by CBRE Director Dr. Cleofe A. Arib, while the “Qualitative Study on “Apo Agua’s Corporate Social Responsibility (2024)” was presented by SRTDO Director Dr. Christine Diaz and AdDU Gender and Development Committee Chair Ms. Mary Donna Grace J. Cuenca.
These studies shed light on the significant changes brought about by the DCBWSP in addressing Davao City’s water challenges, particularly in District 2, where access to safe and reliable surface water has improved the lives of residents. The research also highlighted Apo Agua’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), an analysis of its implementation for host communities, and improvements for more sustainable programs. The forum also put forward policy recommendations for protecting the Panigan-Tamugan Watershed and continuing efforts for watershed protection.
This created an opportunity for researchers, stakeholders, and participants to engage in meaningful discussions on the positive outcomes of the DCBWSP and the value of partnerships in overcoming challenges related to water access and community development.
From the academe, the forum was attended by Assistant to the President for Advocacy and Legal Affairs Atty. Romeo T. Cabarde, Jr., and School of Engineering and Architecture Dean Dr. Randell Espina. Apo Agua General Manager Mr. Ronnie Lim, Aboitiz Equity Venture Adviser for Mindanao Mr. Art Milan, Davao City Water District Spokesperson Mr. JC Duhaylungsod, and associates and officers of Apo Agua represented the water sector. Davao City Councilor Temujin “Tek” Ocampo, who chairs the Environment and Natural Resources Committee of the Davao City Council, also graced the forum.
