Metro Dumaguete Water (MDW), a public-private partnership between the Dumaguete City Water District and Metro Pacific Water, earned international recognition for its commitment to sustainable operations. The utility provider received the Silver Stevie Award for Sustainability at the 12th Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards held in Seoul last May.
The award was conferred under the Saving Energy category, celebrating MDW’s successful efforts to increase water output while significantly cutting electricity usage. The initiative stood out among entries from across the Asia-Pacific region for its innovative approach to operational efficiency.
By reducing energy consumption without compromising service delivery, MDW not only lowered its operational costs but also demonstrated how local utilities can match the performance and environmental standards of globally respected water utilities.
According to MDW Chief Operating Officer Engr. Robert R. Cabiles, the utility has pursued a twofold mission: “to deliver safe and reliable water to Dumagueteños while advancing sustainability initiatives that protect our resources for future generations.”
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How the initiative works
At the heart of MDW’s recognized innovation was the adoption of smart, demand-responsive technology.
Through the use of Variable Frequency Drives, the utility optimized motor performance based on real-time water needs, which reduced unnecessary energy use. This was complemented by critical upgrades in its pumping stations, including improved grounding, properly sized wiring and circuit breakers, and systems designed to shield equipment from sudden voltage spikes.
Together, these measures enhanced both energy efficiency and operational reliability.
Cabiles explained that maximizing energy efficiency in water operations involves producing the highest possible volume of water with minimal electricity use. “This practice has led to lower power rates, higher water yields, and significant operational cost savings,” he said.
The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards stands out as the sole awards program dedicated to honoring innovative achievements across 29 countries in the region. In its latest edition, the program attracted more than 1,000 entries from both public and private sectors. Winners were selected based on evaluations from a panel of over 100 international business leaders.
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Previous award
In the previous year, MDW earned accolades at the 11th Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for its grassroots initiatives aimed at strengthening community engagement.
These included Kauban sa Barangay, a program focused on direct outreach, and Tubero sa Barangay, which trained local plumbers to support neighborhood water systems.
Tubero sa Barangay emerged as a practical, community-focused solution to persistent water leak issues. With barangay leaders nominating promising candidates, the program ensured motivated trainees took part in a tailored plumbing course developed with TESDA. Veteran plumbers from Dumaguete City Water District served as hands-on mentors, guiding participants through essential skills.
After completing the program, graduates were equipped with full toolkits and are now actively addressing leaks in their communities. Their efforts led to a 50% drop in reported leaks and a 15% decline in after-the-meter concerns. Beyond the operational gains, the program also opened new income streams for the graduates, who saw their earnings rise by at least 10% through local repair work.
Meanwhile, the Hugas Luwas sa Dumaguete campaign was awarded Community-Based Water Project of the Year for improving hygiene in schools and public spaces. The initiative installed handwashing facilities in schools, reaching 5,800 students with 58 safe water taps.
Recognizing its success, MDW expanded the campaign to the wider community by placing 40 portable handwashing stations in public areas like parks and government buildings, broadening its impact on public health across Dumaguete.
Cabiles highlighted MDW remains committed this year to advancing its core priorities, which include safeguarding water quality, expanding and developing new water sources, and enhancing overall service delivery for its customers.
Sources:
https://dgtwater.com/news/mdw-wins-international-award-for-energy-saving-sustainability-innovation