Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW) continues its work to improve Iloilo’s water services, investing ₱4.2 billion in major infrastructure projects. These upgrades aim to boost water reliability, reduce system losses, and prepare the city for long-term water security, including plans for the future Metro Iloilo Desalination Facility. Despite challenges such as regulatory approvals, weather disruptions, and rising operational costs, MPIW is steadily progressing with pipelaying and treatment projects across the city.
Since taking over operations six years ago, MPIW has prioritized strategic infrastructure upgrades and system modernization. “We’ve been operating at a loss for six years, but we’re not backing down,” said Kathleen Sadio, Commercial Department Head, during a recent media briefing. “Even with rising bulk water supply costs, operational expenses, and regulatory challenges, we’ve made significant progress — because this is our commitment to Iloilo.”
MPIW’s projects face a variety of challenges, including coordination with regulatory agencies, supply chain delays, permitting issues, and adverse weather conditions. The company has maintained momentum through phased construction, multi-stakeholder coordination, and strengthened public communication, minimizing disruptions to residents.
Under its ₱5-billion medium-term capital expenditure plan, MPIW is investing ₱1.3 billion in 2025 to implement six major infrastructure projects across more than 40 kilometers of new pipelines. Key projects include:
HS Jaro Phases 1 & 2 – restoring 10 million liters per day (MLD)
Pipe Replacement Projects – Q. Abeto–R. Mapa, Iloilo City Proper Phase 2, Bo. Obrero, Mansaya Lapuz, Sinikway
Modular Water Treatment Facility – adding 1 MLD by December 2025 and 4 MLD by April 2026
These upgrades are critical for improving water pressure, coverage, and reducing system losses, while MPIW’s ongoing efforts to reduce Non-Revenue Water (NRW) are on track to bring losses down to 35% by 2027.
The recently approved tariff adjustment — raising the basic charge from ₱20 to ₱28.67 per cubic meter — will help cover operational costs such as power, chemicals, labor, and fuel, ensuring consistent service. “This adjustment does not fund capital projects,” Sadio clarified. “It allows us to operate efficiently and maintain service quality amid rising costs.” Even with the increase, MPIW rates remain competitive compared with other urban water utilities in the country.
Looking ahead, MPIW is preparing to integrate future large-scale water sources, including the Metro Iloilo Desalination Facility (target 2027) and bulk supply from the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project Stage II (JRMP II). Current infrastructure upgrades are designed to be fully compatible with these new sources, ensuring Iloilo’s water system is ready for long-term growth.
MPIW’s projects form part of its 25-year joint venture commitment, reflecting a long-term dedication to delivering clean, reliable, and equitable water service to all Ilonggos.