57 water filters from Waves for Water were delivered on March 8, 2025, to five sitios in Tongbangkaw, one of the floating mission schools in Tawi-Tawi, benefiting over 434 households.
Waves for Water founder Jonathan Rose personally handed the water filters to designated representatives from Pamantakan, Lakit, Kabayan, Punduhan, and Barangay BT, which collectively have a population of over 3,044.
On the same day, a demonstration was conducted by Waves for Water Philippines Director Jenica Dizon alongside Jonathan Rose. They demonstrated that even if water appears brown and unsafe for drinking, or if it is collected rainwater, the filtration system can purify it into clear, safe drinking water. If properly used and maintained, these filters can sustain the community for the next 10 years or more.
“Access to clean drinking water is a fundamental human right,” Jonathan Rose stated.
Waves for Water is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing clean water access to communities in need worldwide. Their initiatives include portable water filtration systems, rainwater harvesting, and well-drilling projects in remote areas.
Tongbangkaw is a Badjau community, known as “sea gypsies,” who have been living in stilted houses with rain as their primary source of drinking water. At times, they transport water from other islands, making them more vulnerable to waterborne diseases. Additionally, Tongbangkaw is home to one of the sailing mission schools under the SULADS Tawi-Tawi Cluster.
“Having clean drinking water is often taken for granted by those living in cities, where it is just a few steps away,” said Jenica Dizon. “But in the Philippines, many communities consider access to clean water a luxury. Clean water is a game changer—it improves health, provides access to education, and enables people to work more. It is truly the first step in breaking the cycle of poverty.”
After receiving the water filters, the residents of Tongbangkaw and representatives from various “islands with no land” expressed their deep gratitude to the sponsors.
“We only have rainwater for drinking, and sometimes, when there’s no rain, we fetch water from other islands—but that costs money for boat fuel. Oftentimes, we got sick because of it too. But now, we’re beyond thankful for these water filters, as they will help and benefit us greatly,” said Adilayda Halinsaran, the Parent Leader in Tongbangkaw.
Seeing the great need for clean water not only in Tawi-Tawi but throughout the Sulu Archipelago, the Waves for Water team conveyed their willingness to collaborate on future projects.
Adventist Mission
Zamboanga Peninsula Mission
