Manila Water achieves double-digit revenue and EBITDA growth in the first half of 2026.

“Our first half results show that even in uncertain times, our company can still deliver strong performance, provide reliable service, and create lasting value for our stakeholders. While geopolitical concerns and El Niño present real challenges for our sector, we are confident in our ability to navigate these conditions by improving the way we operate, optimizing resources, and strengthening service delivery. In doing so, we can translate operational gains into meaningful financial results, while continuing to provide reliable and essential water service to our customers.” ~Mr. Roberto R. Locsin, Manila Water President and CEO

For the first half of the year, Manila Water Company, Inc. (Manila Water) maintained its strong financial and operational performance despite investment-cycle challenges and a more complex operating environment. This resulted from continued cost control, steady demand, and the positive effects of authorized tariff adjustments.

With the implementation of tariff adjustments across key operating units and steady contributions from its core business, Manila Water's consolidated revenues for the first half of 2026 increased by 11% to Php22.2 billion. A 13% increase in EBITDA to Php16.4 billion was supported by effective cost control and operational efficiency initiatives, which complemented this topline growth. The EBITDA margin further strengthened to 74% as a result of the company's ongoing focus on efficiency improvements and stringent cost controls throughout the entire organization. Furthermore, net income rose by 6% to Php8.5 billion, demonstrating Manila Water's capacity to turn a profit despite rising interest and depreciation expenses. This demonstrates the company's capacity to strike a balance between the demands of an ongoing investment cycle and short-term financial performance.

Manila Water's East Zone Concession saw a 12% increase in revenues to Php17.9 billion as a result of steady customer demand and tariff adjustments. The 13% increase in EBITDA to Php13.7 billion and the 9% improvement in net income to Php7.8 billion show that the core business remained strong despite increased depreciation and interest costs brought on by strategic infrastructure investments.

In addition to Manila Water's East Zone Concession, Non-East Zone Philippines (NEZ PH) business units generated robust growth. NEZ PH revenues increased by 2% and EBITDA increased by 7% as a result of tariff adjustments in key operations in Boracay, South Luzon, and Clark. This was further reinforced by higher supervision fees from projects under the company's Laguna Water and Estate Water businesses, which showed Manila Water's increasing portfolio contribution outside of its East Zone Concession and its ability to take advantage of expansion opportunities.

Manila Water continues to focus on essential infrastructure that supports capacity expansion, long-term water security, and service reliability. During that period, capital expenditures amounted to Php6.8 billion in compliance with the company's service obligations.

Manila Water is still taking proactive steps to manage external risks, like the current El Niño conditions and market disruptions brought on by the Middle East crisis. The company continues to take a methodical and systematic approach to cost control, operational resilience, and augmentation of the water supply.

Manila Water calls on customers to support August desludging program

“Every household that participates in desludging becomes a partner in protecting our waterways and safeguarding public health. By ensuring that septic tanks are regularly maintained, customers help prevent pollution and contribute to cleaner, healthier communities.” ~Dittie Galang, Manila Water Corporate Communications Group Head

Manila Water rolls out its August desludging schedule and encourages customers to take advantage of this essential service. By participating in regular desludging, customers become partners in protecting waterways, reducing pollution, and safeguarding public health in their communities.

Manila Water is highlighting the vital role that homes play in preserving waterways and community health by encouraging customers in its East Zone concession area to participate in its August desludging events.

By routinely desludging their septic tanks to prevent untreated wastewater from entering neighboring waterways, groundwater sources, and drainage systems, customers can reduce potential risks to the environment and public health.

For this month of August, Manila Water desludging teams will be deployed in the following East Zone Barangays: Bagong Nayon, Sta. Cruz, and San Luis in Antipolo City; Baras and Jalajala in Rizal; Pila Pila in Binangonan; San Andres and San Isidro in Cainta; Santa Ana in Taytay; Caniogan, Santo Tomas, and Santolan in Pasig City; Malanday, Marikina Heights, Nangka, and Parang in Marikina City; San Isidro and San Jose in Montalban (Rodriguez); and Ampid 1 in San Mateo. The desludging teams will also be deployed to select accounts in Marilag, Botocan, San Vicente, Paligsahan, and San Martin de Porres in Quezon City.

The process of removing accumulated sludge and wastewater from septic tanks is known as desludging. The collected septage is transported to Manila Water's septage treatment facilities, where it is appropriately treated before being safely released in accordance with environmental regulations. This process reduces the amount of pollutants that could otherwise end up in rivers and creeks, supporting larger efforts to improve water quality throughout the East Zone.

Currently, Manila Water uses three septage treatment facilities to treat wastewater throughout its concession area. These are North SpTP in San Mateo, Rizal; South SpTP in FTI, Taguig; and Pinugay SpTP in Antipolo, Rizal. 

Customers in the designated service areas will receive advance notice from Manila Water staff, and they are advised to ensure that their septic tanks are available on the day of the operation.

Every five years, Manila Water provides a complimentary desludging service. 

The project is part of the company's continuous efforts to improve sanitation services and encourage environmental sustainability in the East Zone.

Manila Water replaces over 160,000 meters in 2025

“Rapid field response, active leak detection, and replacing meters remain essential to keeping water losses low and ensuring service reliability across the East Zone. These operational measures directly support the company’s commitment to maintaining efficiency and sustaining improvements in NRW performance.” ~Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water’s Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director

By end December 2025, Manila Water had replaced 168,806 water meters. This helped boost the company's efficiency measures by improving consumption accuracy and reduce water losses.

Due in part to the company's intensified efforts to replace meters and its typically prompt response to network leaks in the East Zone, Manila Water maintained low non-revenue water (NRW) levels in 2025.

The average for the entire year was 14.27 percent, with the water company's NRW in December being 13.55 percent. This result reflects the company's ongoing efforts to reduce both commercial and physical losses in the distribution network. 

This achievement is mostly due to the company's widespread implementation of its meter replacement program in 2025. By the end of December, Manila Water had replaced 168,806 water meters.

The meter replacement project, which reduces water losses and enhances consumption accuracy, strengthens the company's efficiency measures. These enhancements help ensure that clients receive accurate billing and support the company's aim to cut NRW sustainably.

The company's quick response to leaks is another crucial element in reducing actual water losses. Manila Water fixed all 26 reported pipe bursts in less than a day, maintaining an impeccable compliance record for December 2025. Over the course of the year, technicians prevented long-term losses and disruptions to network operations by fixing all 613 mainline bursts in less than a day.

Manila Water will continue to intensify its NRW reduction efforts in 2026 through district metering enhancements, network pressure control, continuous meter replacement, and heightened leak detection operations. These efforts are a component of the company's broader strategy to improve service continuity, secure water availability, and strengthen the East Zone water supply network's resilience.

Manila Water strengthens water and wastewater advocacy through Lakbayan

“Water is a finite resource and its responsible use is a shared obligation, yet it is often overlooked. Lakbayan allows us to share the science, innovation and our dedication behind every drop. Our goal is to inspire individuals and organizations to take meaningful action, whether through simple daily habits or large-scale programs, to conserve water and protect the environment. Every effort, big or small, creates a ripple of impact.” ~Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours designed to give participants an in-depth look at the Company’s water and wastewater facilities.

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to bolster its dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours meant to give participants a thorough look at the company's water and wastewater facilities.

Communities, partners, and stakeholders will learn the value of water and be inspired to use it responsibly as a result of this endeavor.

Lakbayan offers guests a unique chance to experience the entire water cycle, from the source and treatment of raw water to distribution and wastewater management. By taking guided tours of Manila Water's state-of-the-art facilities, visitors may gain firsthand knowledge of the processes that provide a clean, safe, and reliable water supply as well as the systems that treat wastewater before releasing it back into the environment.

Since its establishment in 2006, Lakbayan has collaborated with local government organizations, commercial organizations, and thousands of students to advance awareness of the water cycle and our collective duty to preserve this vital resource. Under the guidance of its Advocacy Managers and Facility Managers, Manila Water arranged sixty-five (65) Lakbayan trips in 2025, with 2,151 participants.

East Zone concessionaire Manila Water continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program Lakbayan, which provides educational facility tours designed to give participants an in-depth look at the Company’s water and wastewater facilities.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, DILG-National Capital Region, Bureau of Fire Protection, City Government of Makati, Sangguniang Kabataan of Quezon City, Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Pateros, San Agustin Seminary, University of the Philippines, Technological University of Philippines, Mariano Marcos State University, Western Mindanao State University, and other public and private educational institutions and private companies were among the organizations that took part.

The program demonstrates Manila Water's commitment to conserving water and protecting the environment. By emphasizing the complexity and importance of water and wastewater management, Lakbayan empowers participants to become champions for sustainability in their local communities.

Manila Water welcomes all stakeholders to experience Lakbayan. For schedules and reservations, interested parties may email info@manilawater.com.

Manila Water, Antipolo LGU inaugurate Hinulugang Taktak STP

“It really is a commitment of Manila Water and the Razon Group to ensure that our hosts and partners work collaboratively to improve quality of life for everyone. This [HT STP] is a living testament to what we want to accomplish.” ~Jocot de Dios, Manila Water President and CEO 

From left (front): MWSS Admin. Bobby Cleofas, Antipolo Mayor Jun Ynares, MWSS Chairman of the Board Elpidio Vega, Rizal Gov. Nina Ynares-Chiongbian, Manila Water President and CEO Jocot de Dios, DENR Usec. Joselin Fragada, MWSS RO Chief Regulator Patrick Ty, and Manila Water East Zone COO Arnold Mortera at the symbolic commissioning of the Hinulugang Taktak STP

Manila Water Company demonstrated its commitment to sustainable wastewater management and environmental preservation in Rizal Province by formally opening the Hinulugang Taktak Sewage Treatment Plant (HT STP) on November 17, 2025.

The event at the STP site in Antipolo City was attended by prominent government representatives and partners, including Vice Mayor Randy Puno Jr., Rizal Governor Nina Ricci Ynares-Chiongbian, Antipolo City Mayor Casimiro "Jun" Ynares III, and DENR Undersecretary Joselin Fragada.

There were also representatives from the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS), including Chief Regulator Patrick Lester N. Ty of the MWSS Regulatory Office, Administrator Leonor "Bobby" Cleofas, Chairperson Elpidio J. Vega, and their teams.

Manila Water was represented by President and CEO J.V. Emmanuel “Jocot” de Dios; Chief Operating Officer for East Zone Arnold Jether A. Mortera; Project Management Group Adviser Angel Gonzalez Angel Gonzalez; Program Management Director Renato C. Belmonte; Project Management Deputy Director Jocelyn M. General; Program Management Senior Manager Francis Erwin A. Cruz; East Zone Business Operations Director Shoebe Caong; and Rizal Business Operations Director Romely T. Paraiso.

During the inauguration, Manila Water President and CEO Jocot de Dios reaffirmed the company’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with government partners and communities.

Hinulugang Taktak STP is part of Manila Water’s ₱2.2-billion sewerage project. With a capacity of 16 million liters per day, it helps protect the Upper Marikina River Basin and supports the rehabilitation of the iconic falls.

Mayor Jun Ynares expressed his gratitude to Manila Water and other stakeholders for undertaking the first and largest sewage treatment plant in Antipolo City.

“Our collaboration is saving and preserving the allure of Hinulugang Taktak for future generations of Filipinos. Thank you for doing your part to ensure that the partnership we began seven years ago has become a successful endeavor.” ~Casimiro “Jun” Ynares III, Antipolo City Mayor 

Governor Nina Ynares-Chiongbian emphasized the importance of honoring Hinulugang Taktak’s heritage while embracing progress through the new STP.

“The inauguration of the HT STP today is about moving forward—about improvement and about tomorrow. But we cannot get to tomorrow without looking to our past. Looking to the past gives value to Hinulugang Taktak.” ~Nina Ynares-Chiongbian, Governor

Undersecretary Fragada, representing DENR Secretary Rafael Lotilla, highlighted the alignment of Manila Water’s HT STP project with the national government’s efforts to create a climate-resilient citizenry.

“This project aligns squarely with DENR’s overarching thrust, under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., to build resilient, climate-smart, and sustainable communities through integrated environmental management.” ~Undersecretary Fragada, representing DENR Secretary Rafael Lotilla

MWSS Administrator Bobby Cleofas underscored the valuable contributions of private companies like Manila Water in delivering sustainable services to Filipinos.

“The Hinulugang Taktak Sewage Treatment Plant is not only a triumph for the water sector but also a representation of an effective public-private partnership.” ~Bobby Cleofas, MWSS Administrator

The Hinulugang Taktak STP is an essential component of Manila Water's ₱2.2 billion Hinulugang Taktak Sewerage System Project, which has the capacity to treat up to 16 million liters of wastewater per day.   The facility helps restore the national park and safeguards water bodies in the Upper Marikina River Basin. It is perfectly located close to the well-known Hinulugang Taktak Falls.

The STP's commissioning signifies Manila Water's long-term goal of expanding sewer coverage and improving sanitation throughout the East Zone in close cooperation with national and local government partners.

Celebrating 25 years of service, Clark Water plans to invest P17.3 billion in service enhancements through 2040

“Hindi pwedeng walang tubig, and we have lots of restaurants and hotels. We cannot afford to have water that is below standard. These are the challenges to Clark Water, and I am very proud to say that they have kept their commitment, their promise, and their performance.” ~Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera, Clark Development Corporation (CDC), led by President and CEO

Since Manila Water assumed operations in 2011, Clark Water has invested approximately P6.6-billion to upgrade water and wastewater systems across the Freeport Zone

Clark Water Corporation, an operating division of Manila Water Non-East Zone subsidiary Manila Water Philippine Ventures, recently celebrated its 25 years of operation by showcasing noteworthy accomplishments and disclosing plans to enhance its offerings for clients and locators. Clark Water Corporation is the sole provider of water and wastewater services in the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ).

Since Manila Water took over operations in 2011, Clark Water has committed over P6.6 billion to improve water and wastewater systems throughout the Freeport Zone.   These modifications were made feasible by close collaboration with its regulator, the Clark Development Corporation (CDC), led by President and CEO Atty.   Agnes VST Devanadera and the locators' continued support in the region.

By consistently offering 100% coverage for water and wastewater services, complete regulatory compliance, and industry-leading performance, these calculated investments have enabled Clark Water to hold its place as a benchmark in the Philippine water utility market.

The four strategic pillars that Clark Water uses to sustain operational excellence are Efficiency, Environmental Protection, Customer Value, and People & Community.   These guide its objective of delivering sustainable, high-quality water services to the Clark Freeport Zone.

Clark Water guarantees competitive pricing, 24-hour service, and full compliance with the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water.   The company maintains world-class Non-Revenue Water (NRW) levels at less than 6% thanks to a 20% supply buffer for reliability.   It has achieved 100% sewer network integration and maintains a centralized, compliant wastewater treatment facility that meets DENR standards (DAO 2016-08 & DAO 2021-19).

These achievements align with growing demand, with locators increasing from 1,096 in 2021 to 1,213 in 2025 and total water service connections reaching 1,894.

Beyond its main commercial endeavors, Clark Water advances the welfare of employees and communities by managing water resources responsibly and fostering a safe and friendly workplace.  The corporation also extends its influence beyond of the Freeport Zone by building vital water supply facilities, putting in refrigerated drinking fountains to encourage hydration and public health, and funding water access initiatives across Pampanga.

Clark Water Corporation, an operating unit of Manila Water Non-East Zone subsidiary Manila Water Philippine Ventures and the sole water and wastewater service provider of the Clark Freeport Zone (CFZ), highlighting major milestones and announcing plans to further enhance its services for customers and locators.

Clark Water continues to recognize the importance of continuous investment in its facilities as the CFZ thrives as one of the Philippines' top tourism and investment destinations.

“Continuous investment in water and wastewater infrastructure is critical to sustaining the growth of the Clark Freeport Zone as one of the Philippines’ premier tourism and investment destinations. By upgrading our facilities and introducing innovative solutions, we ensure that locators and communities have access to reliable, high-quality, and sustainable services. These improvements not only support economic development but also reinforce our commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term resilience.” ~Lyn Zamora, General Manager of Clark Water

As part of its long-term goal, Clark Water developed the 2026 Service Improvement Plan, a strategic project focused on four key areas. In order to reduce reliance on groundwater and ensure resilience and sustainability, diversifying water sources is a critical component of water security. Service quality influences facility changes to comply with evolving water and wastewater standards in order to guarantee safe and efficient service delivery. Service accessibility and continuity encourage service expansion and dependability in order to meet the growing needs of Clark Freeport Zone locators and guarantee ongoing operations. Last but not least, regulatory compliance shows how committed Clark Water is to meeting all legal requirements while attending to the water and wastewater needs of its stakeholders.

“As we celebrate 25 years of service, we reaffirm our commitment to world-class water and wastewater solutions for the Clark Freeport Zone. This milestone is a promise for the future—where sustainability, innovation, and excellence remain at our core. With the investment, we will continue supporting growth while protecting our environment and communities. Thank you to our partners and stakeholders for your trust as we build a stronger, more resilient Clark.” ~Melvin Tan, COO of Manila Water Non-East Zone Operations 

Starting 2026 until 2040, Clark Water will invest a total of P17.3-billion for planned infrastructure upgrades and system enhancements. 

Manila Water bags two Merit Awards at the 21st Philippine Quill Awards

“Project Drink Pilipinas! of Manila Water Foundation calls on more partners and donors to bring refrigerated drinking fountains to more schools and public spaces. Through partnerships, let us quench the public’s thirst for clean, potable water, promote hydration for health, and care for the environment by supporting solid waste management programs of cities and communities.” ~Rej Andal, Manila Water Foundation Executive Director

Manila Water Foundation’s Project Drink Pilipinas! and Manila Water Sustainability Team’s Katubig Currents: Stories & Actions for a Sustainable Future both earned recognition at the 21st Philippine Quill Awards held at the Manila Hotel recently.   

At the 21st Philippine Quill Awards, held at the Manila Hotel, the Sustainability Team and the Manila Water Foundation were both given a Merit Award for outstanding communication efforts that advance public health and environmental sustainability.

The Drink Pilipinas Initiative!  was recognized in the Manila Water Foundation's Corporate Social Responsibility category.   Drinking enough water is encouraged by the program for both health and environmental sustainability.   With Project Drink Philippines' assistance!  The Manila Water Foundation has installed around 400 refrigerated drinking fountains (RDFs) in important public spaces, such as parks, hospitals, and well-known tourist destinations, in an effort to enhance community health and well-being.   RDFs have been installed on campuses throughout Metro Manila to ensure that workers, instructors, and students have easy access to clean, refreshing drinking water.

Since more than 752,987 individuals now have access to clean, drinkable water, the initiative encourages the use of washable drinking cups or tumblers and opposes the "throw-away" mindset of single-use PET plastic bottles, which can contaminate streams and cause flooding.

Meanwhile, a Merit Award in Sustainability Communications and Breakthroughs and Innovations was given to the Manila Water Sustainability Team for their Katubig Currents: Stories & Actions for a Sustainable Future project.   The program combines employee-led watershed restoration projects through Pasibol: Puno ng Pag-asa with internal storytelling platform Kwentong Katubig to foster a sustainable culture.   With over 1,600 volunteer hours, 22 published publications, and many employee-generated ideas, Katubig Currents prepares Manila Water employees to advocate for climate resilience.

“Katubig Currents reflects the heart of our sustainability journey—empowering every Manila Water employee to be a storyteller, a changemaker, and a steward of our shared future. This recognition affirms our belief that real climate action begins within.” ~Sarah Bergado, Manila Water Sustainability Director

The Philippine Quill Awards, organized by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Philippines, is the country’s most prestigious recognition program for business communication excellence.

Manila Water rallies barangay participation in July desludging roll-out

“Desludging is a shared responsibility, and through our IEC program on sanitation, we make sure communities are equipped with the knowledge they need to participate actively.” ~Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Communication Affairs Group Director 

Manila Water rolls out its July desludging schedule, supported by its IEC program. In partnership with LGUs and barangays, the IEC sessions help residents understand the desludging process, its benefits, and how to prepare.

With the launch of its July desludging campaign in Metro Manila's East Zone and portions of Rizal Province, Manila Water is demonstrating its continued dedication to clean and healthy communities.  The organization encourages locals to participate in this vital service, which supports public health and helps stop environmental degradation.

Manila Water runs its information, education, and communication (IEC) campaign before to each planned service to make sure locals are aware and ready.  The IEC sessions, which are organized in collaboration with barangay offices and local government units, give households crucial information on the desludging procedure, its advantages, and the preparations they must make before service day.

For July, Manila Water desludging trucks and ground personnel will be deployed in the following barangays: San Jose in Antipolo; San Isidro in Taytay; San Pedro in Angono; Mambog, Layunan, Libis, and Libid in Binangonan; San Jose, San Isidro, and Balite in Montalban (Rodriguez); Ampid II and Banaba in San Mateo; Gulod Malaya, Silangan, Sta. Elena, and Industrial Valley Complex in Marikina; Rosario, Santolan, and Buting in Pasig City; Alicia, Pasong Tamo, Loyola Heights, Bagong Pag-asa, San Roque, Ramon Magsaysay Damayang Lagi, and Holy Spirit in Quezon City; Balong Bato, Ermitanyo, Pedro Cruz, Little Baguio, and Maytunas in San Juan City; and Poblacion and Mabini-J. Rizal in Mandaluyong City. 

Frequent desludging is essential for safeguarding water supplies, lowering pollution, and improving community health in addition to ensuring that septic systems operate as intended.  Residents who take part in this program help to make the community safer, more resilient, and a cleaner place for everyone.

Manila Water will use its first Utility Model patented Portable Desludger to expand sanitary reach

“The development of Manila Water’s newly patented portable desludger exemplifies the company’s ongoing commitment to enhancing sanitation services, particularly in underserved communities.” ~Jeric Sevilla, Manila Water Corporate Affairs Group Director

The International Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) has awarded Manila Water a patent for its innovative portable desludger.  This cutting-edge tool is expected to improve the business's sanitation initiatives, especially in remote barangays, guaranteeing healthier and cleaner communities. 

Manila Water’s first-ever utility model patented portable desludger is being deployed in various barangays where accessibility challenges hinder Manila Water's ability to perform desludging services. These barangays are primarily located in areas with narrow streets and elevated terrains, making them inaccessible to conventional desludging trucks.

With its simple design, the Portable Desludger converts a traditional vacuum tanker into a small tank with a capacity of 1 m³.  A bigger 10m³ desludging truck can be connected in series with this smaller tank, which can be installed on a smaller vehicle.  In order to effectively meet clients' desludging needs, the more nimble Portable Desludger maneuvers through tight roads while the 10m³ truck stays on standby.

The portable desludger is currently being used in a number of barangays where Manila Water's capacity to provide desludging services is hampered by accessibility issues.  Due to their hilly elevation and small alleys, these barangays are largely inaccessible to traditional desludging vehicles.

Currently, the portable desludger is being deployed in several barangays where accessibility issues limit Manila Water's ability to provide desludging services.  These barangays are mostly found in places with small roadways and elevated terrain, making them inaccessible to traditional desludging vehicles.

Manila Water’s TBM-driven Novaliches-Balara Aqueduct 4 project nears completion

“Part of the agency’s landmark achievements is coming up with interim and long-term water source projects to approximate at least 4,000 million liters per day (MLD) in the next 10 or 25 or, hopefully, 50 years.” ~Gen. Reynaldo Velasco (Ret.), MWSS Board of Trustees Chairman and OIC Administrator

MWSS is celebrating Manila Water’s milestone in its landmark Novaliches-Balara Aqueduct 4 (NBAQ4) project as the tunnel-boring machine (TBM), named “Dalisay”, being utilized for the project has already broken through at the La Mesa Reservoir, more than seven kilometers away from its entry shaft at Balara in Quezon City. The Php5.5B NBAQ4 project, one of the largest MWSS-led water supply infrastructure projects undertaken by Manila Water, entails the construction of a fourth aqueduct from the La Mesa Reservoir to the Balara Treatment Plants (BTP) 1 and 2 to improve the reliability and security of the raw water transmission system. Photo shows the TBM exit shaft at La Mesa, where the intake tower will be built.

The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) celebrates Manila Water’s milestone in its landmark Novaliches-Balara Aqueduct 4 (NBAQ4) project as the tunnel-boring machine (TBM) being utilized for the project has already broken through at the La Mesa Reservoir, more than seven kilometers away from its entry shaft at Balara in Quezon City. The Php5.5B NBAQ4 project, one of the largest MWSS-led water supply infrastructure projects undertaken by Manila Water, entails the construction of a fourth aqueduct from the La Mesa Reservoir to the Balara Treatment Plants (BTP) 1 and 2 to improve the reliability and security of the raw water transmission system. 

In a simple ceremony held last August 14 to celebrate this milestone, workers and guests witnessed the exposure of the TBM cutter head from the soft concrete at the exit shaft. The tunnel-boring machine technology, used for the first time in Metro Manila for this project, has been laying the 7.30-kilometer long and 3.10-meter diameter NBAQ4 underneath Commonwealth Avenue, without impact to traffic since its launch on January 28, 2020. With the pipelaying complete, the TBM named “Dalisay” and its accessories will now be dismantled and the construction of intake tower, outlet tower, and downstream network system will now commence. The project is expected to be completed by June 2022. Manila Water’s partners in this project are Arup as the project management consultant; and NOVABALA joint venture, the project’s design and build contractor composed of CMC di Ravenna (Italy), First Balfour, Inc. (Philippines), and Chun Wo Engineering (Hong Kong). 

MWSS Board of Trustees Chairman and OIC Administrator Gen. Reynaldo Velasco (Ret.) said that this flagship project of Manila Water is part of the agency’s water security program under the current administration. 

Noting that the three existing aqueducts, built in 1929, 1956, and 1968 respectively, are already nearing, if not already exceeding, the service life of 50 years for concrete structures, Velasco cited the urgent need of assessment and rehabilitation even as he commended Manila Water for the completion of this important water security component flagship project. The existing aqueduct system continuously transmits 1,600 million liters per day (MLD) of raw water to BTP.

The NBAQ4 project shall provide a new aqueduct to enable the sequential temporary service suspension of the existing aqueducts for inspection, assessment, and subsequent rehabilitation to help ensure continuous water supply for more than 7 million population served in the East Zone. The NBAQ4 system is composed of a new intake facility at La Mesa, a 1,000-MLD underground aqueduct, and an outlet facility at BTP. Upon completion, the project will also provide emergency redundancy in the event of a failure in any of the existing aqueducts.