Davao City’s Bulk Water Project Wins Best Public-Private Partnership Award

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The Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP) has been recognized as the Best Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in the Philippines by the prestigious International Finance Awards.

The groundbreaking collaboration between the Davao City Water District (DCWD) and Aboitiz InfraCapital’s water subsidiary Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (Apo Agua) is hailed for its innovative approach to providing sustainable water to over one million residents.

The DCBWSP, designed to address the growing demand for water while mitigating environmental risks such as groundwater depletion, stands as a model for future infrastructure projects in the country.

The project taps the Tamugan River to supplement Davao City’s groundwater sources, ensuring long-term water security for one of the nation’s fastest-growing urban centers.

Eduardo V. Aboitiz, President of Apo Agua and Head of Water Business at Aboitiz InfraCapital, highlighted the importance of this partnership.

“This recognition highlights the strength of Apo Agua’s collaboration with the Davao City Water District, a partnership founded on a shared commitment to providing sustainable water for all. This award underscores the essential role of public-private partnerships in driving critical infrastructure development and meeting the evolving needs of communities,” Aboitiz said.

The project is notable not only for its water supply capabilities but also for its innovative water-energy nexus design.

DCBWSP features an integrated hydroelectric power plant that fully powers the water treatment facility. The sustainable design allows the same water to be used for both power generation and treatment, ensuring an eco-friendly approach to water management.

The Davao City Water District plays a crucial role in distributing the treated water to households, businesses, and industries, supporting the city’s rapid urbanization and economic growth.

By ensuring reliable access to clean water, the DCBWSP facilitates the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), as well as large-scale establishments, making Davao City a prime contributor to national economic development.