Metro Pacific Iloilo Water to boost supply by 230 MLD, years ahead of other projects

Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW) is set to boost its water supply by 188% over the next five years, a strategic expansion designed to increase its service coverage from the current 27% to nearly 100% by 2029.

The aggressive push will raise production from 80 to 230 million liters per day (MLD) to meet rising demand in Iloilo City and seven other municipalities amid climate-related and other challenges.

“MPIW’s 230 MLD increase in water supply will meet Iloilo’s rising demand due to rapid urbanization and industrial growth, while improving system reliability and reducing water interruptions. Our multi-source approach will not only lower risk but also ensure water affordability in the long run,” said MPIW Chief Operating Officer Angelo David C. Berba.

This expansion complements the broader push for water security led by national and local agencies, including the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the National Water Resources Board (NWRB), which continue to support sustainable water resource management across the country.

MPIW’s accelerated efforts focus on a diversified and resilient mix of water sources, such as the PHP400 million Modular Water Treatment Plant (WTP), currently in its advanced stage of development. This facility will deliver up to 5 MLD and is expected to go online in 2026, immediately benefiting consumers with improved pressure and coverage in high-growth and underserved areas in Iloilo City Proper, Molo, Arevalo, and La Paz district.

The PHP5.5 billion desalination plant — the first for Iloilo — will convert 60.5 MLD of brackish and saline water into potable water, strengthening climate resilience and providing a sustainable, nontraditional source of water. MPIW’s supply will increase by 150 MLD once the desalination plant becomes operational in 2027.

This early expansion ensures Iloilo’s water security at a critical time, addressing current demand growth without burdening consumers with steep price adjustments. This contrasts with the bulk water supply project currently being considered by the local government, which is expected to start construction only in 2029 — two years after MPIW’s new capacity from the desalination plant becomes operational.

Moreover, this future project is anticipated to require significantly higher capital investment, likely translating into higher water rates for consumers.

Berba added, “MPIW’s approach is to deliver fast, cost-efficient, and sustainable water solutions now, not five to six years from now. We are focused on protecting consumers from steep price hikes by investing early and smartly in infrastructure that is scalable and environmentally sound.”

MPIW is expected to supply water to 50% of its service coverage by 2027 and 90% to 100% by 2029.

Increasing the supply further is the allocation of 86 MLD from Jalaur Mega Dam. MPIW’s joint venture partner, Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD), recently partnered with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) for a government-to-government initiative in preparation for access to water from the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project (JRMP). This allocation will be integrated into MPIW’s supply network, unlocking a major surface water source that will support Iloilo’s rising water demand.

In addition to boosting raw water capacity, MPIW has intensified its efforts to reduce non-revenue water through pipe rehabilitation, leak repairs, and network efficiency upgrades to recover more water and reduce system losses, ensuring more water reaches households and businesses.

Despite operating at a loss since it began operations six years ago, MPIW is doubling down on its commitment to Iloilo — investing over PHP11 billion (including the upcoming desalination facility) to significantly improve water reliability and service quality across its concession area.

By 2027, all pipelines in Iloilo City Proper will be rehabilitated, ensuring consistent 10 PSI water pressure capable of reaching homes on the second floor.

Non-revenue water (NRW) — lost through leaks or theft — has dropped from 54% pre-joint venture to 43% today, with a target of 25% by 2029.

“MPIW’s investments are designed to deliver results sooner and at a more manageable cost to the public,” he stressed.