Unified water management key to PH climate readiness — KOICA

Ranked by the World Risk Index as the world’s most disaster-prone country for 16 consecutive years, the Philippines continues to grapple with frequent typhoons, floods, and droughts that endanger millions of lives and disrupt communities nationwide.

In response to these escalating climate challenges, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is leading efforts to strengthen the country’s resilience through a unified approach to water management under its “Capacity Building for Integrated Water Resources Management and Sustainable Development Project.”

Launched in 2021, the $2.5-million initiative supports the Philippines’ efforts to adopt Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) — a framework that enhances coordination across sectors such as water supply, sanitation, irrigation, and flood control. 

The project aligns with key national policies, including the Philippine Development Plan (PDP 2023–2028), the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP 2011–2028), and the Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan (PWSSMP).

Laying the foundation for integrated management

Implemented by Yooshin Engineering Corp. and Dongbu Engineering, the project began with a comprehensive assessment of the country’s water landscape. This groundwork led to the creation of a mid- to long-term roadmap for bilateral water cooperation between Korea and the Philippines.

KOICA worked closely with Philippine agencies to enhance technical and institutional capacities. These include the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Water Resources Management Office (DENR-WRMO), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), National Water Resources Board (NWRB), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA).

Through training programs in Korea and local workshops, participating officials gained exposure to Korea’s advanced systems for water policy and governance — insights that can be adapted to local contexts.

Jung Youngsun 

KOICA Philippines country director

Institutional collaboration and sustainability

At the Project Completion and Closing Ceremony held at The Westin Manila, partner agencies presented achievements, institutional priorities, and proposed follow-up initiatives. The discussions highlighted the value of cross-agency collaboration to ensure coherent and effective water governance.

“We hope that the governance framework established through this project will serve as a foundation for the Philippines’ integrated water management,” said Jung Youngsun, KOICA Philippines country director. 

“Beyond capacity building, this project has laid the institutional groundwork for sustainable implementation.”  —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma