Elaine Claire Macaspac, a Master of Science in Environmental Science student at the Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (IESM), University of the Philippines Diliman, has been awarded a research grant under the WTA Labs Research Grants Program 2026. Macaspac is the main applicant of the project, with Dr. Mayzonee Ligaray of IESM serving as co-applicant and research adviser.

Her proposed study, titled “Water Inequality and Core-Periphery Dynamics in Multi-Island Municipalities: A Case Study of Bongao, Tawi-Tawi,” examines disparities in water access within geographically fragmented municipalities. The research will investigate how spatial and socio-economic factors shape water distribution and availability across island communities in Bongao.

The WTA Labs Research Grants Program supports research that addresses urban and community development challenges. Under the program, Macaspac received a research grant of PHP 25,000, which will support the implementation of the study in 2026.

Macaspac conducts her research under the Environmental Hydrology Laboratory at IESM, which focuses on hydrological science and water resources research.