Manila Water calls on customers to support August desludging program

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 encouraging customers in its East Zone concession area to take part in its scheduled August desludging activities, emphasizing the critical role that households play in protecting community health and waterways.

Customers can help prevent untreated wastewater from entering drainage systems, groundwater sources, and nearby waterways by desludging their septic tanks on a regular basis, lowering environmental and public health risks.

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.

“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

Desludging refers to the removal of accumulated sludge and wastewater from septic tanks. The collected septage is transported to Manila Water's septage treatment facilities, where it is thoroughly treated before being safely discharged in accordance with environmental regulations. This process helps to reduce the pollutant load that would otherwise end up in rivers and creeks, which supports broader efforts to improve water quality throughout the East Zone.

Manila Water currently has three septage treatment plants that treat wastewater throughout its concession area. These include the North Septage Treatment Plant (SpTP) in San Mateo, Rizal; the South SpTP in FTI, Taguig; and the Pinugay SpTP in Antipolo, Rizal. 

Customers in the scheduled service areas will receive advance notice from Manila Water personnel and are advised to ensure that their septic tanks are accessible on the day of the operation.

Manila Water's desludging service, which takes place every five years, is free of charge. 

The program is part of the company's ongoing efforts to improve sanitation services and promote environmental sustainability in the East Zone.

Manila Water replaces over 160,000 meters in 2025

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.

Manila Water maintained low non-revenue water (NRW) levels in 2025, thanks in part to the company's increased meter replacement activities and regular swift response to network leaks throughout the East Zone.

The water company's NRW was 13.55 percent in December, bringing the annual average to 14.27 percent. This achievement demonstrates the company's continued efforts to eliminate commercial and physical losses in its distribution network. 

The company's meter replacement program, which will be implemented on a wide scale in 2025, will contribute significantly to this performance. By the end of December, Manila Water had replaced 168,806 water meters.

The meter replacement program improves the company's efficiency metrics by increasing consumption accuracy and lowering water losses. These enhancements serve to ensure proper billing for consumers and reinforce the company's efforts to reduce NRW on a sustainable basis.

The company's swift leak reaction also plays an important role in reducing physical water loss. In December 2025, Manila Water repaired all 26 reported pipe bursts within 24 hours, resulting in a flawless monthly compliance rate. Throughout the year, staff completed repairs on all 613 mainline breaks within 24 hours, avoiding long-term losses and service delays across the network.

“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

Manila Water will expand its NRW reduction initiatives in 2026, including district metering enhancements, network pressure management, meter replacement, and leak detection activities. These measures are part of the company's larger plan to ensure water availability, improve service continuity, and strengthen the East Zone water supply network.

Manila Water strengthens water and wastewater advocacy through Lakbayan

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.

Manila Water, an East Zone concessionaire, is strengthening its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through its flagship advocacy program, Lakbayan, which offers educational facility tours that provide participants with an in-depth look at the company's water and wastewater facilities.

This campaign seeks to raise awareness of the importance of water and encourage responsible consumption among communities, partners, and stakeholders.

Lakbayan provides participants with a unique opportunity to experience the full water cycle, from raw water supply and treatment to distribution and wastewater management. Visitors visiting Manila Water's cutting-edge facilities can learn firsthand about the processes that maintain a safe, clean, and reliable water supply, as well as the systems that treat wastewater before returning it to the environment.

Since its debut in 2006, Lakbayan has brought together thousands of students, local government entities, and private businesses to create a better knowledge of the water cycle and our joint role in protecting this critical resource. In 2025, Manila Water, headed by its Advocacy Managers and Facility Managers, held 65 Lakbayan excursions, with 2,151 people participating.

Participating organizations included 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 schools.

“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.

The show focuses on Manila Water's advocacy for water conservation and environmental protection. By demonstrating the complexities and necessity of water and wastewater management, Lakbayan encourages participants to become sustainability advocates in their own 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

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

On November 17, 2025, Manila Water Company formally launched the Hinulugang Taktak Sewage Treatment Plant (HT STP), strengthening its commitment to environmental protection and sustainable wastewater management in Rizal Province.

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

Representatives from the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) were also present, led by Chairperson Elpidio J. Vega, Administrator Leonor "Bobby" Cleofas, and MWSS Regulatory Office Chief Regulator Patrick Lester N. Ty, as well as their respective 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.

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.

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

“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 

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 part of Manila Water's ₱2.2-billion Hinulugang Taktak Sewerage System Project, capable of treating up to 16 million liters of wastewater per day.  The project, which is strategically positioned near the famed Hinulugang Taktak Falls, intends to conserve water bodies in the Upper Marikina River Basin while also supporting the national park's recovery.

The STP's commissioning is a critical step toward Manila Water's long-term aim of expanding sewer coverage and enhancing sanitation throughout the East Zone in collaboration with national and local government partners.

Clark Water celebrates 25 years of service, to invest P17.3-B until 2040 for service improvement

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 Corporation, an operating unit of Manila Water Non-East Zone subsidiary Manila Water Philippine Ventures and the Clark Freeport Zone's (CFZ) sole provider of water and wastewater services, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, highlighting major milestones and announcing plans to improve its services to customers and locators.

Since Manila Water began operations in 2011, Clark Water has invested around P6.6 billion to modernize water and wastewater systems throughout the Freeport Zone.  These enhancements were made feasible through close coordination with its regulator, the Clark Development Corporation (CDC), led by President and CEO Atty.  Agnes VST Devanadera, as well as ongoing support from locators within the zone.

As a consequence of these strategic investments, Clark Water routinely provides 100% coverage for water and wastewater services, continuous service, full regulatory compliance, and industry-leading performance, cementing its position as a leader in the Philippine water utility market.

Clark Water maintains operational excellence with four strategic pillars: efficiency, environmental protection, customer value, and people and community.  These serve as the foundation for its objective to provide Clark Freeport Zone residents with long-term, high-quality water solutions.

Clark Water guarantees low pricing, 24-hour service, and complete compliance with Philippine National Drinking Water Standards.  The Company maintains world-class Non-Revenue Water (NRW) levels of just 6%, with a 20% supply buffer for reliability.  It has completed 100% sewer network integration and maintains a centralized, compliant wastewater treatment facility that meets DENR standards (DAO 2016-08 and DAO 2021-19).

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

These accomplishments come as demand grows, with locators rising from 1,096 in 2021 to 1,213 in 2025, and total water service connections reaching 1,894.

“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

Beyond its core activities, Clark Water advocates for a safe and inclusive workplace, as well as encouraging employee and community well-being through responsible water resource management.  The Company's effect goes beyond the Freeport Zone by supporting water access projects in Pampanga, constructing critical water supply facilities, and installing chilled drinking fountains to promote hydration and public health.

Clark Water recognizes the necessity of continuing to invest in its facilities as the CFZ thrives as one of the Philippines' leading 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

Clark Water's long-term vision includes the 2026 Service Improvement Plan, a strategic program that focuses on four critical areas.  Water Security prioritizes diversifying water sources to lessen dependency on groundwater, hence assuring sustainability and resilience.  Service Quality promotes facility modifications to meet changing water and wastewater regulations, ensuring safe and efficient service delivery.  Service Accessibility and Continuity provide service growth and reliability to meet the expanding needs of Clark Freeport Zone locators while ensuring uninterrupted operations.  Finally, Regulatory Compliance demonstrates Clark Water's dedication to satisfying all regulatory standards while also meeting the water and wastewater demands of its customers.

“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

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.   

Manila Water receives dual distinction at the 21st Philippine Quill Awards, presented at the Manila Hotel. The Manila Water Foundation and the Sustainability Team each get a Merit Award for exceptional communication projects that promote public health and environmental stewardship. 

Project Drink Pilipinas! , sponsored by the Manila Water Foundation, received recognition in the Corporate Social Responsibility category.  The campaign encourages hydration for both health and environmental sustainability.  Through the Project Drink Pilipinas! The Manila Water Foundation has constructed over 400 refrigerated drinking fountains (RDFs) in critical public areas such as parks, hospitals, and tourism sites to promote the community's health and well-being.  RDFs have been installed on campuses around Metro Manila, guaranteeing that students, instructors, and staff have quick access to clean, refreshing drinking water.

With over 752,987 people now having access to clean, potable water, the project promotes the use of washable drinking cups or tumblers while challenging the "throw-away" mentality of single-use PET plastic bottles, which can contaminate streams and cause flooding.

“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

Meanwhile, the Manila Water Sustainability Team's Katubig Currents: Stories & Actions for a Sustainable Future program received a Merit Award for Sustainability Communications as well as Breakthroughs and Innovation.  The initiative combines employee-led watershed restoration activities through Pasibol: Puno ng Pag-asa with an internal storytelling platform, Kwentong Katubig, to build a sustainable culture.  Katubig Currents encourages Manila Water employees to become climate resilience ambassadors through more than 1,600 volunteer hours, 22 published publications, and other employee-driven solutions.

“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

A Manila Water Advocacy Manager conducting an information, education, and communication (IEC) program at a barangay hall in Pasig.  

Manila Water's commitment to clean and healthy communities continues with the implementation of its July desludging program in Metro Manila's East Zone and sections of Rizal Province.  The company encourages locals to participate in this important service, which helps to reduce environmental contamination and promotes public health.

Manila Water runs an information, education, and communication (IEC) program ahead of each scheduled service to keep citizens informed and prepared.  The IEC workshops, which are held in collaboration with local government units and barangay offices, provide critical information to households on the desludging process, its benefits, and the procedures they must follow prior to service day.

“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 

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. 

Regular desludging not only ensures that septic systems run properly, but it also helps to protect water sources, reduce pollution, and promote community health.  Residents who participate in this service help to make the environment cleaner and the community safer and more resilient for everyone.

Manila Water will enhance sanitation reach using its first-ever Utility Model patented Portable Desludger

Manila Water has received a patent from the International Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL) for their innovative portable desludger.  This revolutionary technology is intended to improve the company's sanitation operations, particularly in hard-to-reach barangays, resulting in cleaner and healthier communities. 

The Portable Desludger has a simple design, transforming a traditional vacuum tanker into a tiny 1m³ tank.  The smaller tank can be put on a smaller vehicle and connected in series with a bigger 10m³ desludging truck.  The setup allows the 10m³ truck to remain on standby, while the more agile Portable Desludger navigates tiny routes to suit customers' desludging demands.

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.

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.

“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

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.