According to UNICEF, 53% Philippine households lack access to a safely managed water supply, while 39% lack safe sanitation. This is an issue that the volunteers of a youth-led advocacy are tackling head-on, starting with schools to protect children who are the most vulnerable to this concern.
Students from International School Manila, led by Jacob Tay, started Tubig for Tomorrow (Water for Tomorrow)—an advocacy that aims to distribute access to clean water in schools through the use of innovative techniques and technology. With the drive and the means to help, Tubig for Tomorrow bridges the gap between water infrastructure and water scarcity by raising awareness and developing long-term solutions.
The organization has partnered with Manila Water Foundation and the Department of Education to help identify what schools to select, and with the support of private companies and government partners, the organization funds, donates, and installs water fountains in different schools. These fountains are equipped with IoT (Internet of Things) technology to optimize water systems, which allows real-time tracking of water to ensure that every drop is clean and safe.
These resourceful youths are now looking at installing more water fountains at Sto. Tomas City National High School in Batangas and Odiongan South Central Elementary School in Romblon.
Tubig for Tomorrow dedicates its advocacy to Filipino public schools and ensures the sustainability of clean water. To know more about their efforts, check their official Instagram here.