Dubbed as the highest regional award given by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) V, the Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD) bagged this years’ 19th Saringaya Award for Other Government Entities in recognition of the efforts contributed in the conservation and preservation of the environment on June 27, 2019 at the Casablanca Convention Hall, Legazpi City.

MNWD was likewise commended for the restoration, development, and maintenance of the Anayan-Rumangrap Watershed in Pili, Camarines Sur and the Kalinisan-Nabuntulan Watershed in Panicuason, Naga City inside Mt. Isarog Natural Park (MINP) and the relocation of 34 park settlers through maximum community participation and public awareness for Conservation Farming Communities which led to the restoration of adequate vegetation in the project area, thereby, increasing its water holding capacity and ensuring water supply.

The search for nominees of the 19th Saringaya Award started last April 1 for the duration of 2 months. Selection Criteria included five major points, such as: (1) Environmental Protection (20%); (2) Environmental Conservation (20%); (3) Environmental Rehabilitation (20%); (4) Sustainability of the Programs/Projects (20%); and (5) Social Relevance and/or Environmental Impact (20%).

On its 19th year, the search was opened to all individuals, industries, non-government organizations (NGOs), and People’s Organizations (POs), whose environmental programs are not funded by the DENR, any National Government Agency (NGA) or Local Government Unit (LGU).

Proudly representing the MNWD community at the awarding ceremonies were General Manager A, Engr. Virgilio B. Luansing I and OIC Department Manager for Engineering and Environment Department, Vicente Aniceto D. Rubio. (Auria S. Gonzales)

AWARDING CEREMONY. GM Virgilio B. Luansing I (center) together with DMA Vicente Aniceto D. Rubio (2nd from left) received the 19th Saringaya Award and Plaque of Recognition from DENR V Officials headed by Atty. Gil A. Aromin (leftmost) last June 27, 2019 at the Casablanca Convention Hall, Legazpi City. Photo credits: Jojo Luansing