Manila Water boosts safety, efficiency, climate resilience of facilities

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Water continues to strengthen and modernize its water supply infrastructure as it advances key facility improvement projects designed to enhance safety, security, service efficiency, and operational reliability across its service areas, especially amid the ongoing impacts of a severe El Niño.

As of May 2026, Manila Water has completed three major improvement projects within its water supply facilities:

• Balara Treatment Plant Compound NaOH Central Dosing System civil works
• the supply and installation of lightning surge protection, grounding system, and transient voltage surge suppressor at Siruna Pumping Station in Mambugan, Antipolo, Rizal
• the rehabilitation of the Daang Hari Reservoir in Perpetual Village, Parañaque City

These upgrades are part of the company’s continuing program to enhance the safety and security of critical facilities while ensuring more efficient and reliable water service delivery.

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Strengthening existing infrastructure also supports Manila Water’s efforts to build resilience against climate-related risks, including supply variability and system stress brought about by prolonged dry conditions.

The completed projects contribute to improved process control, protection of electrical systems, and structural integrity of water storage and treatment facilities, all of which are essential in maintaining uninterrupted service during periods of high demand and constrained water supply.

Continuing projects

Meanwhile, Manila Water continues work on the East La Mesa Treatment Plant Facility Improvement Safety Package 1, a key component of its broader infrastructure enhancement initiatives.

Located in Payatas, Quezon City, the 150-million-liter-per-day East La Mesa Treatment Plant is among Manila Water’s largest treatment facilities. Since 2021, the plant has been undergoing a series of upgrades and rehabilitation works to improve operational performance, safety systems, and facility durability in response to evolving treatment requirements and environmental conditions.

A major component of the ongoing project is the enhancement of the plant’s ventilation system, particularly within the filter building.

Increased chlorine demand in water treatment processes has led to higher levels of exposure, accelerating corrosion in several fixtures and components. The ongoing upgrades address these risks by improving air circulation, protecting equipment, and extending the service life of critical assets.

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Once completed, the improvements are expected to strengthen fire safety systems, reduce workplace hazards such as slipping, tripping, falling, and electrical risks, and provide a safer working environment for employees and visitors.

These upgrades also support uninterrupted operations and more efficient treatment processes, which are critical during periods of limited raw water supply.

As of May 2026, the East La Mesa Treatment Plant Facility Improvement project is 70 percent complete, with full completion targeted by the end of 2026.

“Manila Water’s sustained technological and structural upgrades across its water supply facilities aim to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather conditions. These efforts support the company’s commitment to securing 24/7 water service for more than 7.9 million customers in the East Zone of Metro Manila and Rizal,” Manila Water Communication Affairs Group Head Dittie Galang said.

Through these continuing upgrades, Manila Water reinforces its commitment to delivering safe, reliable, and resilient water services while ensuring that its facilities remain equipped to meet operational demands and climate challenges. /atm