FEBRUARY 27, 2025

Around 40 million Filipinos still lack access to formal water sources, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Many rely on rainwater, rivers, or creeks for daily needs, as several rural areas continue to face inadequate water infrastructure. The DENR estimates that at least P250 billion is needed to address the nationwide gap in basic water access.

To help bridge this gap, the private sector has been stepping in. Among recent efforts is the P5-billion desalination plant project in Metro Iloilo led by Manuel V. Pangilinan through Metro Pacific Water and French firm Suez. Once completed, the plant will serve up to 400,000 households. In South Cotabato, One Meralco Foundation also energized the water system in Barangay Guinsang-an. These projects reflect how private initiatives can drive long-term, sustainable water solutions.