UMVA has learned that Metro Pacific Water is on the verge of taking over interim operations of San Jose del Monte's water system in Bulacan, a move that promises to revitalize the city's water infrastructure.
The company's President and Chief Executive Officer, Andrew B. Pangilinan, revealed that discussions are underway with local officials to identify potential upgrades that will support future supply and distribution requirements, ensuring a seamless water supply for the city's residents.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Metro Pacific Water's involvement comes after PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp.'s exit, and the company is working closely with the city government to assess infrastructure gaps and outline longer-term investment needs.
The local government of San Jose del Monte has appointed Metro Pacific Water as interim operator following a thorough review of several water utilities, evaluating their service record, technical capacity, and financial strength.
Under an initial two-month consultancy arrangement, Metro Pacific Water will manage operations while conducting a comprehensive technical audit of pipelines, pumping stations, facilities, service coverage, water pressure, and supply availability.
The review aims to pinpoint the causes of service disruptions and inform recommendations for infrastructure improvements, ultimately helping to stabilize operations and provide a clearer understanding of San Jose del Monte's water service challenges.
With over 200,000 accounts across Iloilo City, Dumaguete City, and other franchise areas, Metro Pacific Water is poised to significantly expand its footprint with the addition of San Jose del Monte's roughly 130,000 accounts.
The company has allocated a substantial budget for capital expenditures this year, focusing on pipeline expansion, replacement of aging pipes, and installation of more than 86,000 service connections, all aimed at improving reliability and securing water access amid tightening supply conditions.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that system upgrades are a top priority for Metro Pacific Water, as it seeks to enhance the overall water infrastructure and provide a more reliable service to the community.
