Twenty-seven Filipino and Dutch organizations from government, business, civil society, academe, and development institutions formally launched the Philippines–Netherlands Sustainable Water Infrastructure Network (PH-NL Sustainable WIN) on 26 May 2026, a new cross-sector platform aimed at accelerating the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into water and water-related infrastructure development in the Philippines.
Convened by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Philippines during the 2nd King’s Day Forum held at Novotel Araneta City, the launch underscores growing momentum toward more climate-resilient, socially inclusive, and transparently governed infrastructure systems in the country.
The initiative reinforces the long-standing partnership between the Philippines and the Netherlands in water management, climate resilience, and sustainable development, while also highlighting increasing multi-sectoral support for institutionalizing ESG standards and responsible business conduct in infrastructure development.
Designed as a collaborative community of practice, the PH-NL Sustainable WIN seeks to foster cooperation, innovation, and shared solutions to advance resilient and sustainable water infrastructure for future generations.
The initiative also forms part of the ongoing celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 2026.
In her opening remarks, Netherlands Ambassador to the Philippines Marielle Geraedts emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing mounting challenges related to climate change, water security, and urbanization. Drawing from the Dutch concept of “Samen” and the Filipino value of “Sama-sama,” she underscored the need for partnerships rooted in shared responsibility, innovation, and long-term sustainability.
The forum gathered key stakeholders from government, industry, development organizations, and academe to explore strategies for more effectively embedding ESG principles into infrastructure planning, financing, and implementation.
A keynote message from Senator Loren Legarda, delivered by Atty. Ipat Luna, highlighted the urgency of mainstreaming ESG standards, particularly in vulnerable coastal areas and water-related infrastructure projects.
Throughout the discussions, participants tackled key themes including ecosystem-based planning, climate resilience, stakeholder participation, governance reform, and inclusive community engagement.
Senior Undersecretary Henry L. Yap of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development also presented a plenary discussion on advancing resilient and inclusive communities in the Philippines.
The event further introduced the proposed 15 Foundational Statements of the PH-NL Sustainable WIN, which are envisioned to serve as guiding principles for ESG-aligned, climate-responsive, and people-centered infrastructure development.
The Network was formally presented by Franco Rebarter, Water and Climate Officer of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Philippines, who described PH-NL Sustainable WIN as a voluntary platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, policy dialogue, and project partnerships among Filipino and Dutch stakeholders.
Anchored on the Dutch “Diamond Approach,” the Network seeks to strengthen cooperation among government, private sector, civil society, and academe while bridging Dutch and Filipino expertise in water governance, climate adaptation, and sustainable infrastructure.
The event concluded with a ceremonial expression of support, as representatives from the 27 participating organizations formally subscribed to the network.