DAVAO CITY — In a joint effort to safeguard Davao City’s vital water source and biodiversity, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Region XI (DENR-XI) and Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc. (AAII) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Habitat Assessment of the Panigan-Tamugan Subwatershed on October 13, 2025, at Sunny Point Hotel, Davao City.
The partnership aims to strengthen environmental protection initiatives and ensure the continued supply of clean and safe water to Davao City residents through the conservation of the Panigan-Tamugan Subwatershed — a key ecological area supporting both human and wildlife needs.
DENR-XI Regional Executive Director Atty. Ma. Mercedes V. Dumagan reaffirmed the agency’s strong commitment to working with Apo Agua and other partners in protecting the watershed.
“Considering the threats that the watershed is currently facing, it is imperative to give priority to its protection and conservation — benefitting both the environment and the people of Davao,” Dumagan said.
Meanwhile, AAII General Manager Ronnie Lim expressed his appreciation to DENR-XI for its unwavering support, emphasizing that the collaboration strengthens their shared advocacy for sustainable water management.
“This partnership reinforces our collective commitment to provide clean water for the community and to preserve the biodiversity that thrives within the watershed,” Lim noted.
DENR-XI’s Assistant Regional Executive Director for Technical Services Victor Billiones also highlighted that the MOA signing goes beyond a ceremonial gesture, underscoring its deeper purpose.
“This is not just a signing ceremony — it is an affirmation of our shared responsibility as stewards of the environment, particularly in safeguarding the Panigan-Tamugan Watershed,” Billiones said.
The event was also attended by key DENR-XI officials including ARD for Management Services Engr. Maribel Alicer, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Davao del Sur Chamberlain Babiera, JD, and Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENRO) Davao City Juvy Hofileña, along with representatives from Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc.
The Panigan-Tamugan Subwatershed plays a crucial role in providing sustainable water resources for Davao City while maintaining ecological balance — making its protection a top environmental priority for both government and private sectors.