GAWA App launches to revolutionize watershed management

By Rowena Cruz Key officials gather for the recent launch of the General Nakar Automatic Tracking and Watershed Patrol App (GAWA) by Philipp...

By Rowena Cruz

Key officials gather for the recent launch of the General Nakar Automatic Tracking and Watershed Patrol App (GAWA) by Philippine tech firm AccessGov Solutions; AccessGov Solutions President Bryce Refuerzo (sixth from left), Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) Administrator Leonor C. Cleofas (center, eighth from left), General Nakar Mayor Eliseo Ruzol (ninth from left) and MWSS Deputy Administrator Jojo Dorado, Jr. (seventh from right). The General Nakar Automatic Tracking and Watershed Patrol App (GAWA) facilitates efficient management of watersheds

GENERAL NAKAR, Quezon - The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), and MWSS concessionaires Maynilad Water Services, Inc. (MWSI) and Manila Water Company, Inc. (MWCI) have recently partnered to launch a groundbreaking watershed patrol app. This major development in environmental management was announced at MWSS headquarters in Quezon City.

Philippine tech firm AccessGov Solutions developed the watershed monitoring app. The General Nakar Automatic Tracking and Watershed Patrol App (GAWA) is a key part of the Watershed Database and Management Information System with Forest Monitoring Application and Subscription Project (WMIS-GAWA Project). It will streamline watershed management efforts.



Mayor Eliseo Ruzol of General Nakar emphasized the benefits of the initiative: "This project, especially the GAWA app, has positive implications for our indigenous communities residing in the watersheds. It's crucial for our municipality's growth and empowers us to make data-driven decisions to protect these vital resources."

MWSS Administrator Leonor Cleofas sees the potential for broader use of this technology. "This digital platform demonstrates how to ensure a sustainable water supply and resilient watersheds. MWSS is considering replicating it to protect other crucial water sources," she stated.

The GAWA app is part of the General Nakar Sustainable Integrated Area Development project, stemming from an agreement between the Municipality of General Nakar, MWCI, and MWSI. It utilizes an Integrated Water Resource Management Decision Support System (IWRMDSS) to facilitate data-driven management of the Umiray, Kaliwa, and Kanan watersheds.

This watershed-based app is a first-of-its-kind tool for MWSS. It will streamline services to watershed communities, track project outcomes, document biodiversity, and highlight areas needing conservation focus. The launch demonstrates a strong commitment to using technology for environmental protection and supporting the well-being of watershed communities, particularly indigenous peoples.

"The GAWA app's successful launch highlights our commitment to driving digital transformation in government, especially for environmental sustainability," said AccessGov Solutions President Bryce Refuerzo. "This platform demonstrates the power of technology to streamline watershed management. We aim to inspire others, showing how innovation can make a real difference in both public service and environmental protection."