Large-scale water savings achieved through an advanced rainwater harvesting system and state-of-the-art wastewater recycling facilities earned top honors for the Philippine firm, Northern Cement Corp. (NCC), at the 2025 Asian Water Awards.

NCC, a subsidiary of San Miguel Corp. (SMC), earned the “Water Conservation Initiative of the Year” award for conserving a total of 212,000 cubic meters of water and reusing 22.7 million liters of treated wastewater last year.

The company's water savings, which generated over $4.7 million in cost avoidance, were largely due to the effective use of its 200,000 cubic meter Rainwater Harvesting Pond and advanced wastewater treatment facility at its Pangasinan operations. Its potable water system sourced 54.9 percent of drinking water from harvested rainwater, generating an additional $35,396 in savings.

More than just generating water savings, NCC’s initiatives have significantly benefited surrounding communities and the environment. Apart from supplying water for its operating needs, NCC’s Rainwater Harvesting Pond has also helped local communities with flood mitigation and supports biodiversity.

Native aquatic species such as edible shells, freshwater crabs, and dragonflies thrive in the restored bodies of water, while terrestrial ecosystems benefit from improved forest hydration. An avifauna inventory recorded 42 bird species within the concession area, alongside the Philippine long-tailed macaque.

NCC has also collaborated with local schools and farmers’ groups on water-saving efforts. It has installed rainwater catchment systems and provided tanks to 12 sites under the National Greening Program.

The company also mobilizes over 200 volunteers for creek cleanup drives and processes plastic wastes through its co-processing system. NCC’s water conservation program complies fully with RA 9275, the Philippine Clean Water Act, and holds ISO 14001:2015 certification.

NCC's efforts have also been recognized by the government, which has awarded the firm the Presidential Mineral Industry Environmental Award in 2024, the DENR-MGB Region I Best Performing Mining Contractor awards for 2024 and 2025, and the DENR-EMB Region I Outstanding Environmental Partner awards.

The Asian Water Awards highlights innovative water projects, initiatives, and organizations that contribute to improved water management, conservation, and sustainability in the Asian region. It aims to promote best practices, foster knowledge sharing, and encourage collaboration across the industry.