PEZA pushes water security as key to competitiveness

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The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and FutureWater Asia, called for urgent action on water security during the Water Forum 2025 held in Pasay City on August 12–13.

With the theme “Securing Water for Industry: Solutions for Economic Zones and Their Locators,” the two-day event was PEZA’s first large-scale forum dedicated to water, underscoring its role as a critical resource for sustaining industry, attracting investment, and ensuring climate resilience.

“Water has emerged as a strategic resource—a key enabler of productivity, resilience, and innovation,” said PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga. “Our goal is to build water-secure industries that are resilient, climate-smart, and investor-friendly.”

The forum gathered policymakers, private water providers, and industry leaders to discuss strategies for sustainable water access, with experts stressing governance reforms, technology adoption, and private sector collaboration as core solutions.

Among the technological tools highlighted were modular treatment systems, AI-enabled monitoring, and zero-liquid discharge recycling, all of which can reduce water stress in industrial hubs while promoting circular economy practices.

UNDP Resident Representative Dr. Selva Ramachandran praised PEZA’s leadership in embedding sustainability into its agenda, noting that water security, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 6, is essential not only for industries but also for surrounding communities.

Forum participants also discussed the importance of innovative financing models and partnerships with the private sector to accelerate water infrastructure projects.

“These solutions are not just case studies, they are viable tools to lower costs, extend infrastructure life, and attract sustainability-driven investors,” said PEZA Deputy Director General Vivian S. Santos. “The partnerships forged here are the foundation of smart, inclusive, and sustainable development.”

The Water Forum 2025 is a milestone in PEZA’s sustainability roadmap, strengthening its role in positioning the Philippines as a globally competitive investment destination while safeguarding water resources for both industries and communities.