The Metropolitan Tuguegarao Water District (MTWD) conducted a Public Awareness and Public Education on Environment and Social Safeguard, Health and Safety, and Gender and Development at Caggay Barangay Hall, Tuguegarao City on September 16, 2024. The program aimed to inform and update the public on the ongoing Surface Water Treatment Plant (SWTP) Project in Caggay. This initiative focused on key areas such as Environmental and Social Safeguards, Health and Safety, and Gender and Development (GAD).

The event commenced with opening message from General Manager Engr. Miller C. Tanguilan, CESE. Following this, Engr. Rholan Abasolo, representing the CG Integra and Rex Morales Joint Venture, provided a comprehensive overview of the SWTP Project and its current developments. Engr. Jon Jon Escalo presented the details on the Environmental Safeguards being implemented for the project, its strict monitoring while ensuring minimal ecological impacts. Social Safeguards of the project was also presented by Mr. Maynard Matammu emphasizing social responsibility, the project’s effects on local communities and the importance of community involvement. Finally, Ms. Marilou Cascolan discussed the Gender and Development (GAD) aspect, highlighting the role of every individual and the importance of gender equity and inclusion in the project.

A total of 115 individuals, including residents of Barangay Caggay, stakeholders, laborers, skilled workers from the contractor’s team, and MTWD committee members, attended the program. The event provided them with a thorough understanding of the progress of the SWTP Project as well as its expected social, environmental, and safety impacts. The focus on various safeguards highlighted commitment of MTWD to a responsible project management.

This program forms part of the project’s Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) initiative, as required by the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC). Another round of this public education initiative will be conducted following the completion of the construction phase, further ensuring transparency and community engagement throughout the project’s lifecycle.