Stakeholders unite to protect and sustain a vital lifeline in Mindanao
Iligan City, May 23, 2025 — A new chapter in the protection of the Agus River Basin began with the launch of the Comprehensive Water Resources Assessment (CWRA) project, a bold step towards ensuring long-term water security in the Ranao-Agus River Basin.
Held at Mahogany Hills in Barangay Ubaldo Laya, Iligan City, the Stakeholders’ Consultation Meeting marked the official kickoff of the CWRA initiative. Spearheaded by the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) in partnership with CEST Incorporated, the project is a response to growing concerns over climate change, water pollution, and unsustainable water use affecting the basin.
The Agus River, which flows from Lake Lanao to Iligan Bay, powers hydroelectric plants and supports domestic, agricultural, and industrial needs across the region. But the pressure on this vital water source is mounting. With erratic rainfall patterns, deforestation, and increasing demand, water availability is becoming uncertain — threatening the ecosystems and communities that rely on it.
The CWRA project brings together local leaders, environmental experts, national agencies, and civil society in a coordinated effort to study the current state of the river basin and develop sustainable water resource management strategies.
During the consultation, Engr. Josephine R. Billones provided an overview of the project, stressing that scientific and community-based planning is critical for balancing ecological integrity with human development. Engr. Jubie M. Fortuito and other technical experts presented initial data and profiling methods, offering insights into the basin’s hydrological dynamics.
Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Pili M. Papandayan called for deeper collaboration among stakeholders, noting that real progress depends on the active participation of both government bodies and local communities.
This assessment is more than just a technical exercise — it is a call to action. As the impacts of climate change intensify and pressures on water systems grow, the CWRA project sets the groundwork for informed decision-making that can safeguard water availability now and in the future.
By redefining water security through inclusive planning and data-driven strategies, the CWRA project offers a model for protecting the country’s critical watersheds. It sends a clear message: securing water for future generations starts with understanding, cooperation, and a commitment to long-term stewardship.