Supporting drinking water access for Philippine indigenous communities

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, strict lockdowns were imposed around the world to limit transmission. In the Philippines—where restrictions became among the longest globally—these measures created severe socio-economic challenges for many, particularly for the country’s Philippine indigenous Aeta population. For these communities, the greatest challenge was inadequate drinking water access.

 

Learning of the Aeta people’s situation through a close friend, Dr. Veronica Ramirez, Arcadian Donna Anne Matutina worked with colleagues to design a project that could make a direct, lasting difference. The initiative was made possible through funding from the Arcadis Local Sparks program, which empowers Arcadians to deliver community service projects that improve quality of life in their local areas. 

Local Sparks is a social impact movement funded by Arcadis, the Lovinklaan Foundation, and Katalys.

Taking the initiative to step in and help

It all began when Dr. Ramirez, a university professor, found herself stranded in her home province of Zambales during the lockdowns. She noticed members of the Aeta community selling fruit and vegetables near her home to make a living. Wanting to help, she first provided used clothing, then began a study center to help local children continue their education during the pandemic.

Inspired by her actions, Donna saw an opportunity to expand the impact. When funding became available through Arcadis, she proposed a project to provide community access to clean water—and “Pumps for Life” was born.

No one left behind

Sustainable Development Goal 6 focuses on “clean drinking water for all”—ensuring that no one is left behind. Sadly, marginalized communities such as the Aeta often are.

Safe, chlorine-free drinking water access is a fundamental human right. It supports hygiene, nutrition, and economic growth, especially in rural and indigenous areas. For many Aeta families, fetching water meant hours of travel to rivers or distant wells. By bringing community water solutions directly to villages, the time saved can instead be spent earning income, studying, or spending time with family—improving overall well-being.

Pumps for life for the Aeta peoples

The Aeta community living in remote provinces faced even greater hardship during the pandemic, particularly due to distance from cities and limited employment opportunities.

Through Local Sparks, Donna’s team received funding in early 2023 to fast-track the installation of 23 jetmatic and hand pump facilities across Mambugan, Bagong Silang, Amianan, and San Isidro in Castillejos, Zambales.

The new community water solutions now provide more than 400 Aeta residents with safe, reliable drinking water access—improving health, sanitation, and resources for livestock and crops, and supporting long-term sustainability.

A first step can lead to many more

Donna and her colleagues continue to explore ways to expand support for the Aeta community. Their next plan includes installing 175 portable solar lights to help farmers work safely and productively in the mountains where they cultivate their crops.

“I’ve spent a lot of time with the Aeta families and have been amazed by their perseverance,” Donna shared. “A little help can go a long way, so don’t hesitate to take the first step.”