Manila Water: Shortage may be over before summer’s end

MANILA, Philippines – Manila Water Inc. announced on Friday that the water supply interruptions in Metro Manila and Rizal province may be resolved before the end of the summer months.

“Manila Water continues to make calibrations in these adjustments to ensure that extended service interruptions will not last for the entire summer,” the firm’s statement read.

The statement is in contrast to the concessionaire’s previous statement that the water shortage will prevail throughout summer due to the declining water level of La Mesa Dam.

READ: Manila Water: Expect water interruptions throughout summer

 Water rationing

Manila Water Inc. added that some customers in the east zone of Metro Manila have been experiencing improved water supply due to a water rationing scheme.

“Customers of east zone concessionaire Manila Water began to feel the positive effects of the rotational water supply scheme which began last Thursday,”  the water distribution firm said.

The company said the operational adjustments are a temporary measure to balance water supply distribution in its concession area which will eventually result in more definite hours of water availability.

Water levels, pressure

The company added that the levels of their water reservoirs have started to increase.

Manila Water also said water pressure is expected to improve in the coming days as reservoirs are “continually refilled to enable water to reach highly elevated areas.”

Priority solutions

It likewise added that immediate solutions to the water shortage, including the energization of the water treatment plant in Cardona, Rizal, which is part of the Rizal Province Water Supply Improvement Project, are being prioritized.

The project is currently delivering an initial 22 million liters per day (MLD) and is expected to produce up to 50 MLD by mid-April.

Water discoloration

Manila Water also reminded customers of possible water discoloration due to low water pressure.

“As we continue the restoration of water supply within our service area, customers may experience water discoloration. This normally happens when pressure & supply adjustments are done,” it said in a tweet.

As we continue the restoration of water supply within our service area, customers may experience water discoloration. This normally happens when pressure & supply adjustments are done. Please allow a few minutes for water to flow until it becomes clear. Salamat po. #ManilaWater

— Manila Water (@ManilaWaterPH) March 15, 2019

The water concessionaire also asked customers to “allow a few minutes for water to flow until it becomes clear.” / gsg