November 25, 2024 – In celebration of World Toilet Day, the LifeBank Foundation (LBF) and Water.org, in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Alitagtag, Batangas, officially launched the Blended Finance Partnership with the theme, “Leveraging Safe Water and Sanitation for Peace through Blended Finance.”
The project aims to provide beneficiaries and their families access to decent, climate-resilient toilets and financial opportunities, emphasizing the critical link between water, sanitation, and sustainable development.
The launch garnered strong support from government agencies and private organizations, including the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Health (DOH), Commission on Filipino Overseas, Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, FINEX, and The Manila Times.
Alitagtag Hon. Mayor Edilberto Pongos, represented by its Municipal Administrator, delivered his acceptance and support for the project. Ms. Gay Santos, Water.org’s Regional Director for Southeast Asia, highlighted the transformative impact of water and sanitation in eradicating poverty.
LBF Officer-in-Charge (OIC), Mr. Roberto “Bong” Mediana, Jr., also expressed his message of commitment and how this project contributes to enabling LBF’s mission and vision.
Other key representatives from LBF were present at the event including Ms. Joean Gajeto, Director for Microfinance Operations; Ms. Jannite Orbe, WaSH Coordinator; Ms. Ruby Repoldo, Area Manager of Batangas; and Branch Manager Ms. Lorna Caisip (Bauan Branch) and Ms. Julie Mae Pineda (Cuenca Branch).
Water.org – Philippines, headed by Mr. Dick Pajarillo, Portfolio Lead for Financial Institutions in Southeast Asia, and Ms. Josephine Mendoza, Accounts Manager, also actively participated, underscoring their pivotal role in spearheading the event.
The partnership marks a significant step toward improving access to safe water and sanitation in the region, promoting health, resilience, and economic empowerment for communities in need.
