Manila, Aug. 21 -- Ilonggos are encouraged to sustain their gains and share their sanitation experience with other communities in the country.

World Health Organization (WHO) Philippines Deputy Head Olivia Lawe-Davies, in her keynote address during the Philippine Approach to Sustainable Sanitation (PHATSS) Biyaheng Grade 2 (G2) Para sa Limpyo Iloilo Summit on Thursday, said the Philippines is facing important sanitation challenges.

"As of 2024, around 85 percent of Filipinos have access to basic sanitation, but for over 17 million Filipinos, it was still lacking. That is far too many. This is why action at the local level is important," she said.

The WHO official said Thursday's summit is an opportunity to recognize Iloilo's progress i...