Steps Toward Sustainability: Over 500 Join “Taralets Para sa Tubig” Fun Run

 The power of community was on full display on April 27, 2025, as over 500 participants gathered at La Mesa Ecopark for “Taralets Para sa Tubig!”—a Fun Run and Nature Walk organized by the Philippine Association of Water Districts (PAWD), in partnership with the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA), in celebration of World Earth Day 2025. 

“Taralets Para sa Tubig!” was a meaningful expression of collective action for water conservation and environmental sustainability with participants from local water district employees and suppliers, diplomats, executives, and families, who ran side by side in 1.5K, 3K, and 5K categories, raising awareness for the country’s most critical resource: water. At the heart of the event was a shared message: "Let’s create ripples of action that flow forward for a water-secure nation."

PAWD President Salvador “Budz” Royeca, led the call for unity across the country’s water districts, while LWUA Chairman Ronnie L. Ong, who also personally joined the runners, emphasized the government’s strong commitment to securing sustainable water access for future generations. Also present were Mr. Jocot de Dios, President and CEO of Manila Water, a strong private sector ally in the water sustainability movement; H.E. Miguel Utray, Ambassador of Spain, and H.E. Constance See, Ambassador of Singapore, who participated in the 3K Run alongside her family—demonstrating personal and diplomatic support for community-driven climate action.

Newscaster and WeKenRun member Migs Bustos joined the 5KM fun run

 

Participants of Taralets para sa Tubig! pledging their commitment for a water secure nation

The La Mesa Ecopark (LME), is an environmental haven located in Quezon City which fosters a rich biodiversity and offers experiential learning on environmental conservation and protection

 

Dignitaries and special guests were treated to a guided ecological tour of La Mesa Ecopark after the run to gain deeper insight into the importance of protecting natural watersheds like La Mesa, which supplies clean water to millions in Metro Manila.

 

In his message during the opening program, LWUA Chairman Ronnie L. Ong emphasized the role of unity and personal commitment in water conservation: “What we work hard for is to ensure that we deliver safe, potable, and affordable water from source to tap. And that’s what we’re all here for today: to commit together that we will conserve water together for a water-secure nation,” Ong said. “I’m also happy to announce that I commit, as Chairman of LWUA, to donate a rainwater catchment facility to the La Mesa Ecopark because of your immense support.”

 

After crossing the finish line, participants signed a “Commitment Wall”, symbolizing their personal pledge to become champions of water conservation and sustainability in their homes and communities. The wall filled with names and messages stood as a visual reminder of the power of united action.

The event gave a distinctly inclusive and hopeful atmosphere as the community rallied together with families and colleagues, bonding over a shared advocacy. PAWD President Budz Royeca thanked the participants and partners for making the event a success: “This event shows that when the government, private sector, and the public join forces, we can create real impact. We are grateful for the overwhelming support of our communities and partners.”

 

The race was smoothly managed by WeKenRun, led by Coach Ken Mendola, ensuring a safe and engaging experience for all participants. Runners received commemorative finisher medals, reusable race kits, and a renewed sense of purpose. “Taralets Para sa Tubig!” proved that every step counts when taken together toward a water-secure, environmentally responsible, and united nation.