Abucay eyes Dutch expertise to build a more flood-resilient future

Seeking innovative solutions to the growing challenges of flooding, water management, and sustainable development, Mayor Erik Martel recently joined government officials, development experts, and international partners at the King’s Day Forum 2026, where discussions centered on building climate-resilient communities through responsible infrastructure planning.

At the forum, experts highlighted the importance of ESG—or Environmental, Social, and Governance—principles in infrastructure development. The framework promotes projects that protect the environment, create meaningful benefits for communities, and are managed with transparency and accountability, a model increasingly being adopted worldwide as climate risks intensify.

A major milestone during the event was the launch of the Philippines-Netherlands Sustainable Water Infrastructure Network, a partnership designed to connect Philippine stakeholders with Dutch expertise in water management. The Netherlands is widely regarded as a global leader in flood control and water engineering, having developed advanced systems to protect communities situated below sea level and in flood-prone areas.

Martel said the initiative could open opportunities for Abucay to access world-class knowledge and technologies that may help strengthen local flood-control measures and water supply systems. During the gathering, he engaged with officials from the Dutch Embassy, UN-Habitat, the Department of Transportation, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, the Philippine Reclamation Authority, and Maynilad Water.

He also signed the Ceremonial Expression of Support and Subscription, reaffirming the municipality’s commitment to pursuing sustainable, resilient, and future-ready projects for the benefit of present and future generations.