Manila Water marks Earth Day with Lakbay Kalikasan at La Mesa Nature Reserve

MANILA, Philippines – In celebration of Earth Day 2026, Manila Water brought together communities and partners for Lakbay Kalikasan 2026: Let’s Move for Nature, a nature-based fitness and advocacy activity on Saturday at the La Mesa Nature Reserve in Novaliches, Quezon City.

Attended by 110 participants from the private and public sectors, the activity was organized by Manila Water in partnership with the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office (MWSS RO), MWSS Corporate Office (MWSS CO), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Quezon City local government, reflecting a shared commitment to environmental protection and watershed conservation.

Lakbay Kalikasan 2026 forms part of Manila Water’s Earth Day activities, anchored on the global theme Our Power, Our Planet set by EARTHDAY.ORG.

The theme highlights how environmental progress is driven by collective action, from communities protecting ecosystems to institutions advancing sustainable solutions.

As a water and wastewater services provider, Manila Water continues to push initiatives such as watershed protection, renewable energy transition, and operational efficiency to help reduce environmental impact.

“Manila Water has always been a staunch advocate of the environment as we believe that sustainably protecting the environment is crucial to our operations to deliver our mission to serve the communities within our concession area. As we face imminent challenges of the scorching heat and El Nino, let us all work together to protect our environment. Together, let us all move for nature,” Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director Jeric Sevilla said.

“We are here because of a shared commitment to care for our environment and to protect one of our most precious resources, the La Mesa Watershed. Every step we take here today is a step toward a more sustainable and resilient tomorrow, not just for us but for our children,” MWSS Chief Regulator Patrick Ty said.

“We recognize Manila Water for organizing this event and for its commitment to safeguarding our water systems. Bawat watershed na ating pinoprotektahan ay ambag sa malinis at ligtas na tubig para sa susunod na henerasyon (Every watershed we protect contributes to clean and safe water for the next generation),” QC District 5 Action Officer William Bawag added.

The event was held within the La Mesa Nature Reserve, a vital watershed that supports the water supply of Metro Manila.

Participants took part in outdoor activities designed to promote wellness while strengthening appreciation for nature and protected areas.

These include a seven-kilometer nature reserve hike along the Bangkalan Route, as well as a one-hour yoga session at the La Mesa Nature Reserve grounds.

Manila Water emphasizes that protecting water sources and ecosystems requires shared responsibility across sectors.

Through Lakbay Kalikasan 2026, the company and its partners aim to encourage everyday action for nature, reinforcing the role of individuals, institutions, and local governments in sustaining the environment for future generations.