The Iloilo Bulk Water Supply Project is set to strengthen Iloilo City’s water infrastructure by providing a reliable, redundant, and inclusive water supply system that allows multiple players to coexist and serve the city’s growing needs.
Designed to treat and deliver bulk water to multiple city off-takers, the unsolicited project—a proposed public-private partnership (PPP) between the Iloilo City government and Aboitiz Group infrastructure arm Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc. (AIC)–ensures that Iloilo’s water system is resilient and flexible, which will ultimately benefit Ilonggo consumers.
With a projected investment of about P5 billion, the 86-million-liters-per-day Iloilo Bulk Water Supply Project will divert water from a raw source to a treatment facility before delivering treated water to several city off-takers or distribution companies.
By tapping into all available options and engaging multiple operators, the Iloilo Bulk Water Supply Project unsolicited proposal strengthens the city’s water infrastructure by introducing built-in redundancy, as previously encouraged by several stakeholders.
Its multiple off-taker approach ensures that households and businesses alike benefit from a reliable and consistent supply, even in the face of unexpected disruptions or system failures, while fostering transparency and accountability within the water sector.
At the same time, it fosters a dynamic environment where water providers are encouraged to collaborate, driving innovation, efficiency, and improved service delivery. In essence, the project not only safeguards the city’s water supply but also creates a resilient and sustainable ecosystem where all stakeholders involved benefit – and most importantly, where consumers win.
“The Iloilo Bulk Water Supply Project is designed with the consumer at its core. By complementing existing and future players and infrastructure, it ensures that every Ilonggo has access to safe, reliable, and sustainable water. Through coexistence and collaboration, we are creating a system that not only secures today’s needs but also guarantees future generations a resilient and affordable water supply. In this setup, the real winners are the consumers, who benefit from better service, more choices, and lasting water security,” said AIC President and Chief Executive Officer Cosette V. Canilao.
As an unsolicited PPP, the project is subject to the full PPP framework, including a competitive selection process, to guarantee that Ilonggos receive the best deal and that public interest remains at the forefront.
Further, by unbundling bulk water supply and distribution, the Iloilo Bulk Water Supply Project allows specialized providers to focus on their areas of expertise, improving service delivery and operational efficiency.
As AIC advances the project, it continues to work closely with all stakeholders to optimize production costs, ensure fair rates, and deliver a water system that supports Iloilo City’s long-term growth and resilience.IMT
