The Metro Kidapawan Water District Regional Training Center (MKWD-RTC) recently welcomed a group of dedicated leaders for an intensive three-day Advanced Policy-Makers’ Seminar. Held on March 24-26, 2026, at the MKWD Regional Training Center in Brgy. Manongol, Kidapawan City, the event was designed for General Managers and Board of Directors , the decision-makers who keep water services running effectively. The seminar provided a collaborative space for executives to sharpen their skills in infrastructure management and financial stewardship. Atty. William M. Angos, CPA, General Manager of MKWD, opened the program with an encouraging welcome address, urging fellow leaders to view the training center as an accommodating resource for continuous growth and to request specialized seminars tailored to their needs.
The seminar drew active participation from water districts across the region, including Banga Water District, IGACOS Water District, Lebak Water District, Metro Ozamiz Water District, Pigcawayan Water District, San Roque Water District, Sultan Kudarat Water District, Surallah Water District, and Tagum Water District. Their collective expertise and diverse local perspectives greatly enriched the collaborative spirit of the training.
The first half of the program, led by Engr. Romeo M. Diaz focused on the technical aspect of water governance. Participants deep dived into discussions on how to optimize water systems and facilities while conducting thorough assessments of daily operations. These sessions were carefully crafted to help General Managers and Board of Directors look at their infrastructure through a more efficient view, identifying modern upgrades that align with long-term community goals. By bridging the gap between technical complexities and high-level policy, the seminar ensured that the leaders feel confident making big calls on major improvements and system reliability.
The focus then shifted to the financial health of water utilities, a complex but vital responsibility guided by experts Ms. Dina M. Cunanan and Ms. Delia E. Quinajon. This segment handed the Board and Management the knowledge they needed for smart financial planning and investment analysis. From projecting cash flows and analyzing cost-benefits to exploring new sources of capital funds, the curriculum covered it all. Participants explored the importance of financial performance indicators and proactive tariff analysis, essential ingredients for any water district that wants to remain sustainable in a changing economy.
To conclude the event, Ms. Ruth G. Jabines, MBA, DM-HRM, RTC Director and OIC-Assistant General Manager for Administration and Finance, led the closing ceremony and the awarding of certificates. In her closing remarks, she expressed gratitude to both the participants and resource speakers for their roles in the seminar’s success. During her remarks, Ms. Jabines highlighted that this seminar is only the beginning of the RTC’s vision to be a Center for Innovation, Learning, and Development.
