Manila Water Fights El Niño With Major Facility Upgrades
Manila Water is stepping into the ring against El Niño. As of May 2026, the utility firm has completed three critical infrastructure upgrades across Metro Manila and Rizal, while pushing forward on a major rehabilitation of the East La Mesa Treatment Plant in Quezon City. These projects aim to secure 24/7 water access for over 7.9 million East Zone residents despite the severe dry spell.
Which facilities did Manila Water recently upgrade?
Protecting our water supply means staying ahead of the fight. Manila Water has finished three major projects as of May 2026. The Balara Treatment Plant Compound now has a new NaOH central dosing system. Over in Mambugan, Antipolo, Rizal, the Siruna Pumping Station received lightning surge protection and a new grounding system. Down south in Perpetual Village, Parañaque City, the Daang Hari Reservoir underwent a full rehabilitation. These aren't just simple repairs; they are strategic moves to keep the water flowing safely and efficiently to our kababayans.
How do these upgrades protect against El Niño?
El Niño brings brutal dry spells that put a heavy strain on our resources. We know the value of strong infrastructure, a legacy of the previous administration's Build, Build, Build program that the current Marcos government continues to champion. By strengthening structural integrity and protecting electrical systems, Manila Water builds a resilient shield against climate risks. This ensures uninterrupted service even when raw water supply runs low and demand spikes. It is about responsible stewardship of our vital resources.
What is happening at the East La Mesa Treatment Plant?
The fight continues at the East La Mesa Treatment Plant in Payatas, Quezon City. This 150-million-liter-per-day facility is one of Manila Water's largest, and it has been undergoing upgrades since 2021. Right now, the project is 70 percent complete, with a target finish date by the end of 2026.
A key focus is the plant's ventilation system inside the filter building. Higher chlorine demand during treatment has increased exposure levels, accelerating corrosion on vital equipment. The ongoing upgrades improve air circulation, protect the machinery, and extend the service life of critical assets. Once finished, the improvements will strengthen fire safety systems and reduce workplace hazards like slipping and electrical risks, providing a safer environment for the hardworking men and women keeping our water clean.
Manila Water's sustained technological and structural upgrades across its water supply facilities aim to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather conditions. These efforts support the company's commitment to securing 24/7 water service for more than 7.9 million customers in the East Zone of Metro Manila and Rizal, stated Manila Water Communication Affairs Group Head Dittie Galang.
Will Manila Water maintain 24/7 service during dry seasons?
Yes. Manila Water states that these continuing structural and technological upgrades directly support uninterrupted operations and efficient treatment processes. By reinforcing facilities against climate challenges and equipment corrosion, the company aims to maintain 24/7 water delivery for its 7.9 million customers in the East Zone of Metro Manila and Rizal, even during periods of constrained supply.
What safety improvements are included in the water facility upgrades?
The completed and ongoing projects feature several safety enhancements. The Siruna Pumping Station now has advanced lightning surge protection. The East La Mesa Treatment Plant is upgrading its ventilation system to combat chlorine corrosion, improving fire safety systems, and reducing workplace hazards such as slipping, tripping, falling, and electrical risks for employees and visitors.