Maynilad Nears Completion of P5.8 Billion Pipeline Project, Bolstering El Niño Preparedness

MANILA, Philippines — Maynilad Water Services Inc. is nearing completion of its P5.8-billion pipeline project, allowing improved distribution for customers in the southern part of its concession area. The water service provider for Metro Manila’s West Zone said the completion of the primary distribution pipelines would enable more water to be distributed to its customers in Muntinlupa and Las Piñas. With a combined length of 9.12 kilometers, the project will also support better pressure management and improve reliability for Maynilad customers once fully commissioned. “Investments such as this are part of our continuing effort to build a more resilient water system for the West Zone,” Maynilad COO Christopher Jaime Lichauco said. The pipeline work also forms part of the company’s preparation for the effects of the incoming El Niño. “As climate conditions become more challenging, we need infrastructure that allows us to maximize available supply, manage constraints more effectively and better support our customers during periods of tighter raw water availability,” Lichauco said. The El Niño has now been present in the tropical Pacific and is expected to strengthen during the latter part of the year, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). Below-normal rainfall, dry spells and drought in several parts of the country are expected in the coming months. Maynilad added that the completion of the primary distribution pipelines would also support its broader water-security program. Other measures include tapping supplemental water sources such as Laguna Lake, expanding storage capacity and developing more modular treatment plants and potable water reuse facilities. The company has also been trying to reduce its water losses and improve its network and pressure management. Maynilad services certain portions of Manila, Quezon City, Makati, Caloocan, Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, Valenzuela, Navotas and Malabon. It also serves several cities and municipalities in Cavite.