MWSS: Water treatment project won’t raise tariffs

The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office (MWSS RO) assured that the construction of Maynilad Water Services Inc.’s modular treatment plant (MTP) will not impose any additional tariff charges.

During the Public Consultation Drive on Friday, Nov. 17, Israel C. Bungay, senior public utilities regulation officer of MWSS, said the estimated cost for customers will remain at ₱0.32 per cubic meter (mcm).

The estimate is within the budget for the bulk water purchase.

The construction of the MTP near the Putatan Treatment Plant 1 in Muntinlupa is expected to supply 20 million liters per day (MLD) and provide greater benefits to consumers within the area.

Elinor R. Mendez, president and chief operating officer of RENDCO Water Infrastructure Inc. (RENDCO), shared the efficiency of the plant’s new technology.

“[The MTP] will reduce water interruptions, especially during the dry season, as well as mitigate the high turbidity levels of Laguna Lake,” she said.

RENDCO, which is in charge of the construction, also said they will shift from polymeric materials to pressurized ceramic ultrafiltration membranes.

Membrane filtration is necessary to effectively remove harmful substances from the water.

“This [ceramic material] is stronger, it will be easier to replace the membranes, and we can use the filtration device against aggressive chemicals even during the highest temperatures,” Mendez explained.

She also added that the materials to be used for the MTP will have five to 20 years of longevity.

Besides the membrane, RENDCO also showcased a nanobubble generator that aims to minimize algal bloom in the lake during summer, reduce operational shutdowns due to maintenance, and diminish the unnatural taste and smell of treated water that could affect public health.

Moreover, Maynilad said necessary repercussions would be made if the MTP fails to achieve the water safety goals.

Meanwhile, the upcoming Wawa Bulk Water Supply project of Maynilad will expect certain changes in tariff.

According to the MWSS regulation officer, there will be a ₱2.32 per cm change within the rebasing period of 2028 to 2032.

The Wawa project in Rizal is expected to operate by 2026. (Gabriell Christel Galang)