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Author: Keri-Ann

Manila’s Monsoon Meltdown: Time for Resilience and Innovation

Posted on by Keri-Ann


Manila's Monsoon Meltdown: Time for Resilience and Innovation

Yesterday, intense Habagat (Southwest Monsoon) rains transformed Manila’s roads into rivers—again, highlighting a growing pattern: Metro Manila is increasingly overwhelmed by more frequent and extreme rainfall. (YouTube).

The Philippines climate metrics—temperature rises, sea-level acceleration, outbreak of heatwaves, and cyclone frequency—not only highlight the escalating challenge but also underline the urgent need for adaptive, data-driven infrastructure solutions for transportation, urban planning, and public safety.

Why it matters:
Every dollar invested in adaptation today can avert multiple losses tomorrow. The Philippines could avoid up to 4% of GDP loss by 2100 with smart adaptation investments. And while national programs like the People’s Survival Fund and Ecotown strategies exist, they need agile, tech-driven partners.

It’s time for data-driven action – to protect communities and keep cities moving, even under pressure.

At AnyWay Solutions, we specialize in climate-resilient transport infrastructure. Our approach blends cutting-edge technology with deep engineering expertise to help cities adapt, recover, and thrive.

  • We use Earth Observation and AI to assess risks and inform smarter planning
  • We integrate digital tools and real-time data into asset management.
  • We support sustainable, low-carbon materials and resilient road designs
    And we work with local and international partners to scale impact where it’s needed most.

Makipagtulungan tayo para sa mas ligtas, matibay, at matalino na imprastruktura para sa susunod na henerasyon.

(Let’s work together for safer, stronger, and smarter infrastructure for the next generation)

Rural Senses Impact Assessment: Measuring real-world impact using Earth Observation technology

Posted on by Keri-Ann

Enga Highway Impact Assessment: Measuring real-world impact using Earth Observation technology

As part of our ongoing commitment to building sustainable, climate-resilient transport infrastructure, AnyWay Solutions has partnered with Rural Senses—an AI-powered platform for community-centered impact evaluation. 

 

This collaboration represents a pivotal step in measuring and enhancing the real-world impact of our projects in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By integrating Rural Senses’ participatory and data-driven methodologies, we are assessing the environmental, social, and economic benefits of our work more effectively.  

We are using the Rural Senses technology to assess the impacts of our work on the communities surrounding the Enga Highway where AnyWay’s climate resilient design and engineering solutions have played a key role in the highway’s rehabilitation and upgrade.

Using Earth Observation to Measure Real-World Impact

In this phase of the study, the evaluation uses mixed methods, leveraging Earth Observation (EO) data to complement the traditional process of in-person surveys used to understand communities’ needs and perceptions.  Through this process we can create a richer, more objective view of long-term development impact on the region, related to the work we have been involved in upgrading the highway. In doing so, we combine local insights from community engagement tools with our geospatial analytics and engineering expertise to track the actual impact on the surrounding areas.

EO as a Tool for Measuring Community / Economic Growth

Using  earth observation , we analyzed changes along the corridor of the Enga Highway, a 67kom long road, through the years 2017 to 2024. This period was chosen to track the years following the completion of the rehabilitation of the Highway in 2017, enabling us to collect data points that could be compared to the prior period. This included quantifiable signals of urban growth, visualized through color-coded land cover maps (see image), revealing significant expansion of built-up areas and agriculture development around towns adjacent to the highway. Through combining the on-the-ground surveys with EO technologies we link quantitative data on geographic changes and expansion with qualitative social and economic data from surveys. This also enables us to identify high-impact zones for future infrastructure investments and interventions.

 

Caption:  Sentinel-2 10m Land Use-Land Cover Time Series produced by Impact Observatory and Esri.  Above, is a clip of the Sentinel-2 10m Land Use-Land Cover Time Series data produced by Impact Observatory and Esri. When the slider bar is moved to the left, you can see the red areas indicating built-up areas of more densely populated areas in back in 2017. With the slider moved to the right, you can see there are areas with developed towns adjacent to the highway, signaling significant urban expansion within the area up to 2024.

Beyond A Map: A Multi-Dimensional View

In parallel with the earth observation technologies, AnyWay field staff have been conducting surveys throughout the community to gather qualitative data on the direct impacts to community-members. Using both anecdotal, in-person interviews and enhancing it with data collected through satellites allows us to achieve a multi-dimensional perspective that includes measurable geographic outcomes. When we overlay EO-derived land use changes with Rural Senses’ qualitative data—on employment, access to services, and community well-being—we start to build a multi-dimensional view of development. We will go more in depth

Forward Looking – The future is here

At AnyWay Solutions, our goal is not just to provide designs and solutions that are focused on climate resiliency for transport infrastructure but also to ensure it contributes to long lasting, inclusive development. With partners like Rural Senses and tools like Earth Observation, we’re changing how impact is measured and being evaluated in developing nations.

Read more about the different phases of the Rural Senses impact assessment of Enga Highway project here:

Rural Senses: Building a Theory of Chang

Meet Dudu Shtengel – A growth-focused advisor

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Meet Dudu Shtengel – A Growth-Focused Advisor

As a Stabilization Consultant at AnyWay Solutions, Dudu plays a pivotal role in helping clients reimagine road infrastructure through innovative stabilization techniques. His work focuses on the rehabilitation and upgrading of roadways, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge products with forward-thinking, climate-resilient design principles. With a firm belief in sustainability and durability, Dudu sees that every project he contributes to is structurally sound, environmentally conscious, and future-ready.

What initially drew Dudu to AnyWay Solutions was more than just the work—it was the people. He was inspired by the dynamic blend of collaboration and innovation that resonated through the team, a culture where ideas are welcome. Though he began his journey at AnyWay gradually, Dudu’s commitment, curiosity, and proactive spirit quickly accelerated his involvement. Today, he is widely recognized as one of the company’s trusted advisors, valued not only for his deep technical knowledge but also for his thoughtful approach and strategic insight.

Dudu brings to the table a wealth of experience, yet remains humble—always ready to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue. His balanced approach of sharing expertise while embracing new perspectives creates a collaborative atmosphere where innovation thrives. With sharp business acumen and a natural flair for creative problem-solving, Dudu is constantly seeking new ways to drive the company forward and deliver greater value to clients.

One region that holds a special place in Dudu’s heart is Papua New Guinea. “What I enjoy most about my job is working with my team in PNG,” he shares. “I am very proud of the projects that we have amassed in that region.” Over time, Papua New Guinea has become more than just a work destination—it has become a second home. Dudu now divides his time between there and his native Israel, bringing a truly global perspective to his work.

Looking ahead, Dudu remains driven by a clear vision: to help AnyWay Solutions expand its impact, strengthen its market presence, and continue delivering climate-resilient transport infrastructure solutions that leave a lasting, positive footprint on the communities they serve. His journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and understanding what matters.

Kahi Estates – Sustainable Agri-Residential Development

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Kahi Estates – Sustainable Agri-Residential Development

Brgy. Bago Gallera, Libby Road, Talomo District, Davao City, Philippines

Project Objective:​

Damosa Land, Inc. initiated the Kahi Estates project with a clear vision: to build an agri-residential community that embodies sustainable development while integrating the natural character of the land into the architecture and development. Positioned in the southern part of Davao City, Kahi Estates aims to serve as a primary home for families seeking wellness-centered, eco-conscious living. 

The project integrates modern Filipino architecture with agricultural practices, creating a community centered around “Community Farming and Sustainability” and “Community Wellness and Fitness.” Rooted in the Cebuano word “kahilom”, meaning peace and tranquility, Kahi Estates is a pioneering venture in the heart of Davao City that highlights Damosa’s commitment to multi-generational living, environmental harmony, and enhanced quality of life. 

The Challenge

From the outset, the project team encountered significant geotechnical and environmental challenges to overcome. Soil analysis revealed that the site contained highly plastic materials with weak load-bearing capacity (CBR 3), rendering it unsuitable for standard pavement construction. Without proper treatment, this could compromise road durability, increase costs, and delay timelines. 

Unpredictable climate events including heavy rainfall has led to the understanding that forward looking, there is a need to enhance the climate resiliency of the roads of the project. Importing construction materials was both costly and environmentally burdensome, conflicting with Damosa Land’s commitment to sustainability. 

To address these issues, Damosa Land engaged AnyWay Solutions to introduce an innovative, eco-friendly, and cost-effective method for  pavement design that would enhance the climate resiliency of the roads by taking an advanced engineering approach that would allow for the use of the local problematic soils and materials as part of the construction of roads for the project. 

Our Role

AnyWay Solutions played a pivotal role in overcoming the project’s technical challenges and fulfilling its climate resiliency and sustainability goals. Their comprehensive scope of work included: 

  • Reviewing and enhancing the engineering designs for land development. 
  • Provide a pavement design for the roads in the project 
  • Supplying the required stabilization technology and specific equipment for the construction phase.  
  • Providing services of Supervision of the road construction along with on-site dedicated Quality Assurance by one of its senior engineers. The process included also training and capacity building for the Kahi Estate engineers and local supervision team in the process.  

AnyWay’s engineering solution was used to upgrade the engineering properties of the weak in-situ soils, creating robust climate resilient road pavements. This has led to an environmentally and economically advantageous strategy for the project. 

The Results

The roads at Kahi Estates now sit atop a firm, uniform, and robust pavement with enhanced durability. This ensures a more resilient and lower-maintenance infrastructure and contributes significantly to the project’s sustainability objectives. 

Key benefits of the engineering solutions prepared by AnyWay for the project include: 

  • Robust road pavments with enhanced climate resiliency. 
  • Cost savings by eliminating the need for imported materials. 
  • Minimized environmental impact through reduced construction waste and lower carbon emissions. 
  • Reinforcement of Damosa Land’s brand as a leader in sustainable development and community wellness. 

Beyond technical achievements, the project has had a lasting positive impact on the local community, providing a model for future agri-residential developments that balance modern living with climate and environmental stewardship.  

Rural Senses Impact Assessment: Building a Theory of Change

Posted on by Keri-Ann

Rural Senses Impact Assessment: Building a Theory of Change

As part of our ongoing commitment to building sustainable, climate-resilient transport infrastructure, AnyWay Solutions has partnered with Rural Senses—an AI-powered platform for community-centered impact evaluation. 

This collaboration represents a pivotal step in measuring and enhancing the real-world impact of our projects in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By integrating Rural Senses’ participatory and data-driven methodologies, we are now able to assess the environmental, social, and economic benefits of our work more effectively.  

We are using the Rural Senses technology to assess the impacts of our work on the Enga Highway between Togoba Junction to Wabag in Papua New Guinea. Since starting to use the technology, we are continuously learning new things about how our projects impact built, natural and community environments. 

Assembling data to support assessment of project impacts 

In this phase of the study, we are focused on defining key impact indicators and developing a structured data collection plan. This plan serves as a detailed guide, outlining what will be measured, where and how data will be gathered (using methods such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups), the tools and technologies involved, and the timeline for implementation. Once in place, this system enables both participatory and quantitative assessments that help us evaluate the tangible, long-term benefits of AnyWay Solutions’ projects. 

At the same time, the Rural Senses team is training local surveyors in Papua New Guinea using a mixed-methods framework developed at the University of Cambridge, known as “The User Perceived Value.” This approach captures community perspectives through open, natural conversations conducted in local languages—ensuring the insights we collect are both authentic and actionable. 

The training focuses on: 

  • Ethical interviewing and building trust 
  • Ensuring data consistency and quality 
  • Using innovative tech, including voice-based surveys 
  • Addressing cultural nuances to minimize bias 

We’re excited to see how this groundwork will shape the stories and insights we uncover. Stay tuned as we continue to share stories from the field, and the lessons we’re learning as we work to create long-term value in the communities we serve. 

More information on our work with Rural Senses here: https://anywaysolutions.com/engaging-with-rural-senses-to-assess-our-projects-impacts-on-progressing-sustainable-development-goals/ 

Founders’ Trail Kfar Vradim

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Founders’ Trail Kfar Vradim - Kfar Vradim Local Municipality

Kfar Vradim, Israel​

Project Objective:​

The Municipality of Kfar Vradim honoured two founders by developing a few walking trails in and around the town. One of these was ‘The Founders Trail’ right at the center of the town, leading to an observatory spot over the valley below. Developed in a natural setting, the requirements included minimizing impact on the surrounding environment, ensuring accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and maintaining a natural appearance. A 550-meter trail with a few wide pads was cast in one day.

The Challenge

As part of minimizing the impact on the natural environment, minimizing the need to excavate the natural in-situ soils and replace them with imported base materials was a must. The selected solutions also had to be based on natural ingredients and be simple to apply. The architect who designed the project previously worked with AnyWay and contacted us to ask if it had a solution that would fit the project. PathWay was found to be a perfect fit. The preparation works for the trail were minimized, local natural stones were used as the boundaries of the trail and the trail base was constructed with compacted crushed by-products from a local quarry. No metal mash or geo fabric was required.

Our Role

AnyWay supplied PathWay with concrete mixers to the site and coordinated the application by a specialist concrete slabbing company using concrete pumps.

The Results

The trail was opened to public about two weeks after completion of all additional works around it, providing sitting benches and drawing stands overlooking the valley.

The trail since then has been the center of many social activities for the Local community of Kfar Vradim.

Meet Matt Fisher – Guidance and Oversight

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Meet Matt Fisher - Guidance and oversight

Matt serves as the Chief Legal Officer of The Metrontario Group, which is the parent organization of AnyWay Solutions. In this capacity, he plays a key role in overseeing a diverse range of business ventures within the Metrontario Group’s extensive portfolio. These ventures span various industries, including residential and commercial real estate development and management, nuclear medicine, marine agriculture and consulting engineering for climate resiliency, to name just a few. 

Matt has played an active role in AnyWay Solutions since its inception over 25 years ago, having co-founded the company alongside Zeevik Halber, the CEO, and Alex Campbell, the Director of Engineering. Throughout his career, Matt has thrived on the camaraderie and shared sense of humor that exists within the company. He values the close-knit, eclectic team of employees who are spread out across the globe, working together to achieve their common goals. 

One of Matt’s most cherished memories from his work with AnyWay Solutions dates back to a project in the early years of the company. AnyWay played a critical role in building soil block homes for a struggling community located just outside of Johannesburg, South Africa. This experience was particularly impactful for Matt as he witnessed firsthand the difference that his team’s work could make in the lives of people in developing regions. It was a defining moment that shaped his understanding of the positive social impact that the company could have. 

Since that pivotal project, AnyWay Solutions has continued to contribute to numerous infrastructure projects in developing regions around the world. The company remains committed to its mission of connecting communities through the development of infrastructure that prioritizes both accessibility and climate resilience. As the team moves forward, it continues to innovate and expand its reach, always striving to make a lasting impression on the communities it serves. 

Looking ahead, Matt is excited about the prospect of further expanding AnyWay Solutions into new countries and regions. “I’m confident that our people will continue to forge meaningful relationships and have a positive impact, wherever we go,” he says, reflecting on the company’s promising future. 

Matt Fisher headshot

Restoration of an agent agriculture farm

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The Government of Israel – The Authority of Antequties

Rosh Ha’Ayin, Israel

Project Objective:

Over the past decade, a few cities in Israel have been developed extensively. With new neighbourhoods being developed in outskirts of the cities, in untouched areas. As developments progress, many agent sites are being discovered. Such was the case in the eastern new neighbourhood of Afek in Rosh Ha’Ayin, Israel. An agent 2700-year-old agriculture farm was discovered during the works. “We see a trend all over the world that cities are approaching archaeological sites that were once protected. In a small country as flooded with archaeology as Israel, this is expected to happen” says Ya’ara Shaltiel, Head of the restoration Planning Branch at the restoration Administration of the Israel Antiquities Authority. The approach the Authority took was one that aimed at integrating these restored agent sites in the new neighbourhoods as part of the public areas for the new residents.

The Challenge:

Making an ancient site accessible to the public and adhering to the new standards was a challenge, as the usual work of digging into its floor or bringing in compactors was not possible. From an architectural point of view, the solution would also need to combine the old appearance of the remaining structural elements on the site. AnyWay got into the picture with its solution of low carbon emission concrete, PathWay. Not only would PathWay create an area that would comply with the current accessibility standards of the urban environment, but it would also combine well with the ancient site and complement the architecture. Not need to dig in the floor of the site, no need to bring any metal bars or geofabric, like would be need with cement-based concrete. PathWay was applied directly to the existing floor of the site, as it was found.

Why AnyWay eventually got to be included in the project is the fact that PathWay is a low carbon emission material; it is mineral-based. Also, the main ingredient is quarry by-product material that reaches the soil. In addition, no metal mash was required for the slab. All these comply with the requirements of working in such a sensitive ancient environment.

The Results:

The site was opened to the public within a few days after it was concreted. It is situated with in a park surrounded by newly built buildings and kids could walk through the site without even knowing that their small feet actually walk in a 2700 year old farm.

AnyWay’s Role:

AnyWay supplied PathWay with concrete mixers to the site and coordinated the application by a specialist concrete slabbing company also using concrete pumps.

Meet Alfer Parreño – A Rising Star

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Meet Alfer Parreño - A Rising Star

Alfer Parreno is a Design Engineer at AnyWay Solutions and the newest member of the team. He was drawn to AnyWay after learning about their climate resiliency solutions in developing nations, and about the innovative engineering projects designed to make transport infrastructure more resilient to the impacts of climate change. 
 
Alfer earned his Civil Engineering degree from the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos in the Philippines and became a licensed Civil Engineer in 2021. After completing his studies, he worked at the Philippines’ Department of Public Works and Highways before joining AnyWay in July. 

At AnyWay, Alfer appreciates the learning opportunities provided to him and is always eager to enhance his skillset. He enjoys working on a diverse range of projects around the world, solving unique engineering challenges, and learning from a team of experts. Alfer embraces using new technologies such as Lidar, satellite data, and AI. He enjoys finding ways to integrate these digital tools into engineering solutions to solve clients’ problems while streamlining workflows. 
 
As a young engineer, Alfer finds great satisfaction in seeing his projects come to life. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see how the bridges, roads, and flood mitigation structures I’ve helped create improve people’s lives,” he says. 

Alfer believes that communication and listening are key to both personal and team success. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, exploring new places, and photography. 

Looking ahead, Alfer is committed to helping AnyWay provide climate-resilient solutions to clients, particularly in remote areas of the world. He looks forward to continuing his work with developing countries to provide long-lasting solutions for transport infrastructure and flood mitigation. “The continuous improvement of satellite data, along with advancements in AI, gives us the opportunity to take a data-driven approach to remote locations that lack reliable data. I hope to see this technology continue to improve,” he says. Optimistic about the future, Alfer believes that technology will play a critical role in accelerating climate resilience efforts, enabling communities to adapt and recover from the impacts of climate change. 

Alfer1

Meet the Team – Herb

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Meet Herbert Betz – Bridging the gap

Herb Betz represents AnyWay Solutions in the Philippines. His connection with AnyWay began in 2008 while he was working in Bentiu, South Sudan. Over the years, Herb and AnyWay collaborated to develop the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) base, specifically for Rotary Wing assets. Fast forward to today, Herb continues to work with AnyWay as part of a team in the Philippines, where he focuses on introducing climate-resilient transport infrastructure solutions to government agencies and local partners.

Herb values the family-like culture and tight-knit community at AnyWay. He appreciates the team’s dedication, the multicultural diversity, and the valuable insights he gains from the many leaders within the company.

In his current role, Herb is committed to bringing AnyWay’s solutions to the communities in the Philippines that would benefit from them the most. He describes his work as “bridging the gap”—understanding the challenges the Philippines faces in connecting to outside markets and leveraging AnyWay’s solutions to address these issues. With a strong focus on the effects of climate change, Herb is dedicated to finding solutions that can help Filipino communities become more resilient, especially in the face of recurring flooding. Herb feels that his role is a natural fit because he is passionate about environmental issues and poverty. As he puts it, “No child should go hungry, and every child needs a home. Climate change will create more climate refugees in the future, so we must find solutions now.”

One of Herb’s most memorable experiences was meeting AnyWay’s current CEO, Zeevik Halber, and the team in Tel Aviv during their early work days on the first South Sudan road. He deeply values the trust and friendships he’s built with the company over the years. “I feel blessed to work with this organization and lead the team in the Philippines,” he says.

Outside of work, Herb is motivated by his family and his faith. He enjoys golfing and spending time outdoors, especially in the Philippines, which he describes as one of the world’s most biodiverse regions, with over 7,000 islands to explore. “If I have my family with me, it’s the best,” he says.

Herb believes that his success is found when the team succeeds. He looks forward to continuing to help the country and his company achieve greater success in the years to come.