AIDFI Welcomes The Coca-Cola Company and Foundation Delegation for Field Visits and Water Program Discussions

On May 19, Alternative Indigenous Development Foundation, Inc. (AIDFI), represented by its President Engr. Christopher Taclobos and CEO Auke Idzenga, had the honor of welcoming Seth Womble, Senior Director for Sustainable Access to Safe Water of The Coca-Cola Company, during a series of field visits and discussions focused on sustainable and community-based water solutions in Negros Occidental.

Joining the delegation were Lynn Hong, Climate & Water Sustainability Director – ASEAN and South Pacific; Maggie Lee, Senior Director for Sustainability – ASEAN and South Pacific; and Maria Christine Ponce-Garcia, Head of Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability. Also joining the visit were Monina Pacheco and Sidnie Villanueva, Program Officers of Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines.

Field Visit to the Hydraulic Ram Pump Project

The day began with a field visit to the hydraulic ram pump project located in So. Ananggue, Brgy. Buenavista, Murcia. The guests experienced firsthand AIDFI’s holistic water program and its impact on improving access to safe water for upland communities.

The hydraulic ram pump technology, one of AIDFI’s flagship innovations, continues to provide a sustainable and reliable water supply solution for remote communities without the need for electricity or fuel. The visit gave the delegation an opportunity to engage with the local context and better understand the importance of accessible and sustainable water systems in improving quality of life and supporting community development.

Discussions on Non-Revenue Water Management

Following the field visit, the group proceeded to the pilot Non-Revenue Water (NRW) site of the Murcia Water District. The visit highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen water management systems and reduce water losses through NRW management initiatives being implemented in partnership with AIDFI.

This was followed by a presentation and discussion at the Murcia Water District office. Representatives of the water district, headed by General Manager Engr. Winston Makilan, exchanged experiences, insights, and ideas with the visiting delegation. There was fruitful sharing among everyone as discussions focused on operational improvements, sustainability initiatives, and collaborative approaches to improving water service delivery for communities.

The exchange of knowledge and experiences emphasized the importance of partnerships among water districts, development organizations, and private sector stakeholders in building resilient and efficient water systems.

Visit to E.B. Magalona NRW Site

In the afternoon, the delegation traveled to the municipality of E.B. Magalona to observe another pilot NRW site and receive updates on the ongoing NRW program being implemented with the E.B. Magalona Water Works.

The delegation also met with municipal mayor Matthew Louis Malacon, where discussions centered on local water initiatives and the continued strengthening of sustainable water services in the municipality. The visit provided an opportunity to assess progress, discuss challenges, and explore further collaboration in reducing water losses and improving water access for residents.

Strengthening Partnerships for Sustainable Water Solutions

The visit underscored the value of collaboration and shared commitment in addressing water access and management challenges in communities. Through field immersion, technical discussions, and meaningful exchanges, the delegation gained deeper insight into AIDFI’s ongoing efforts to advance inclusive and sustainable water solutions across Negros Occidental.

AIDFI extends its sincere appreciation to all partners, guests, local government units, and water districts for their continued support and collaboration in promoting sustainable community development and improving access to safe water for underserved communities.