Davao city’s lead NGO advocate for the sustainable management of watersheds received two awards in time for its 18th founding anniversary this March 29.
The City Government of Davao recognized the Interface Development Interventions Inc. (IDIS) for its invaluable contribution to the city in the field of environment and beautification during the Pasidungog: Garbo sa Davao Program, in celebration of the 80th Araw ng Davao.
Ateneo de Davao University Community Engagement and Advocacy Council also gave IDIS its Bergoglio Awards for Excellence in Environmental Stewardship in recognition of the organization’s innovative approaches and creative solutions for environmental challenges.
Ateneo de Davao University also cited IDIS’ “critical roles in enacting environmental ordinances like the Zoning Ordinance and the Watershed Code of Davao.”
“These awards confirm the importance of environmental advocacy,” said Chinkie Pelino-Golle, IDIS Acting Executive Director, who described the awards to be truly heartwarming. She explained that the organization’s advocacy was rooted in the simple desire of Dabawenyos to continue to enjoy living in a green and sustainable Davao City.
She proudly admitted that IDIS is very passionate when it comes to engaging with various sectors of society. This has become the organization’s trademark after almost 18 years of advocacy work for the protection and defense of the city’s current and future water sources.
She dedicated the awards to the hardworking staff and supportive Board of Trustees of the organization along with all the watershed stakeholders.
“These awards strengthen us in the long challenging journey of policy advocacy. The gains usually take long and are not very apparent, if any. But we celebrate small victories such as this when our critical partners like the City Government and Ateneo de Davao University approve of what we do. They inspire us to press on and do better.”
IDIS has consistently partnered with the City Government for various environmental initiatives such as the annual Ecofest and Lunhaw Awards with CENRO and CAO. IDIS also maintains a long-time partnership with Ateneo de Davao University in various networks for policy advocacy and social justice.