Cavite State University (CvSU) joined other higher education institutions (HEIs) in the Philippines in the Weaving Collaborative Actions Toward Resilient, Renewable, and Regenerative Water Management (WAT3R) Consortium for the protection and conservation of the country’s water resources.
Seven HEIs composed of Aklan State University (ASU), Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU), Benguet State University (BSU), Cebu Normal University (CNU), CvSU, Mabalacat City College (MCC), and Rizal Technological University (RTU), formalized this collaboration during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of the Establishment of WAT3R Consortium on September 30 at the MCC.
Among the officials present were US Embassy to the Philippines Deputy Director on Public Engagement Ms. Pauline Anderson, CHED Deputy Executive Director IV Atty. Lily Freida M. Milla, ASU President Dr. Emily M. Arangote, BPSU President Dr. Ruby Santos-Matibag, BSU Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Samuel S. Poliden (representing President Dr. Felipe S. Comila), CvSU President Dr. Hernando D. Robles, CNU President Dr. Daniel A. Ariaso Sr., MCC President Dr. Michelle Aguilar-Ong, and RTU President Dr. Ma. Eugenia M. Yangco.
As members, the educational institutions will be extending their resources and services for the protection of rivers in their respective communities and in support of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 14 (Life below water), and SDG 17 (Partnership for the goals).
The consortium also aims to share facilities for the conduct of scientific research, and develop programs to empower more universities and colleges to play an active role in water conservation.
After the MoU signing, Pres. Robles presided over the meeting with the presidents and officials of the member HEIs to discuss the way forward for the newly established consortium.
