Empowering Communities on World's Water Day: PASAR’s Commitment Beyond Copper

As we celebrate the World Water Day on March 22, 2024, it's important to reminisce again what PASAR, the premier copper smelter and refinery in the Philippines, did for Eastern Leyte in line with Environmental and Social Responsibility that transcended corporate responsibility.  The inception of the Barangay Water Subsidy (BWS) Program in 1986 marked the beginning of a transformative era for communities along the water pipeline stretching from Brgy. Salvacion, Ormoc City, to the Leyte Industrial Development Estate (LIDE).  This program provided clean water to neighboring communities.

It cannot be denied that this project positively impacted the local community in more ways than one.  Winnie from Barangay Tubod and Joselito from Barangay Matlang echoed the sentiments of many with their immense gratitude and happiness from this initiative. Their reactions underscored the project’s significance in nurturing and supporting the lives of many from the local community.  This showcased the transformative power of PASAR's Community Support Programs as shared via personal stories like Winnie and Joselito. From medical aid to scholarships, these narratives shed light on the profound and positive changes that thoughtful corporate social responsibility can bring about, underscoring the value of genuine care and commitment.  Expressions of gratitude from the community members to PASAR, such as "Salamat kaayu PASAR, I love you!" and encouragements for continued efforts, reflect a deep appreciation for PASAR’s support that they received.  These messages were not only a recognition of past and present efforts but also a hopeful gaze towards a future filled with continued collaboration and impactful initiatives.

Providing every household with an allocation of 5 cubic meters of water significantly alleviated and freed the members of the community from their financial woes; enabling residents to redirect their meager resources to other essential needs. The support transcended monetary value that improved in general the community's quality of life and likewise cemented PASAR's role as a partner for progress in Isabel and neighboring communities.  The water subsidy program served as a cornerstone among PASAR's extensive community support programs and initiatives, laying the foundation of trust and cooperation.  Through these endeavors, PASAR not only reaffirmed its commitment to responsible corporate citizenship but also forged a deeper connection with the communities it served, driven by a mutual aspiration for sustainable development.

As World Water Day prompts us to reflect on the indispensable use of water and the contributions of corporations like PASAR, we are reminded that the journey towards sustainability and community welfare is a shared endeavor nurtured by the waters of cooperation, sustainability, and mutual respect.