Lanao del Sur / Lanao del Norte — Communities along the Agus River stand to gain from a newly formalized partnership between the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy (MENRE) and the National Water Resources Board (NWRB), aimed at enhancing the sustainable management of one of Mindanao’s most critical river systems.
On May 8, 2025, MENRE Minister Akmad Brahim and NWRB Executive Director Atty. Ricky Arzado signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) in Quezon City to launch a ten-month Comprehensive Water Resources Assessment (CWRA) for the Agus River Basin.
The assessment, which officially began in March and will run until December, seeks to gather scientific data to guide local policies on water conservation, equitable allocation, and climate resilience.
Originating from Lake Lanao and flowing northward through Lanao del Sur and Lanao del Norte, the Agus River is vital to the region’s agriculture, energy production, and daily water supply. Its sustainable management is seen as essential to the environmental and economic stability of the Bangsamoro region and beyond.
“This joint assessment marks a crucial step forward for the Bangsamoro Government which aims to inform future policies on water allocation, conservation, and climate resilience,” said Minister Brahim during the signing.
The CWRA will examine both the quality and quantity of water in the river, taking into account current usage patterns, ongoing development, and projected climate change impacts. The initiative aims to provide baseline data needed for evidence-based planning and stronger regulatory frameworks.
MENRE, through its Environmental Management Services, will take charge of regional coordination, promotion, and monitoring of the project. The assessment will cover communities across Lanao del Norte and more than 30 municipalities in Lanao del Sur, including Marawi City.
NWRB, for its part, will provide technical oversight and has engaged consulting firm CEST, Inc. to lead the scientific work. The partnership also includes targeted training sessions for MENRE personnel to strengthen local capacity in water resource management.
For residents living along the Agus River, this collaboration promises long-term benefits—ranging from improved access to clean water and disaster preparedness to stronger environmental protection.
This milestone highlights the shared commitment of MENRE-BARMM and NWRB to promote science-based, inclusive, and community-centered water governance in Mindanao.