MPIW assures Iloilo of reliable water supply amid looming El Niño
By Manny Regalado Alcalde
Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW) has declared its readiness to confront the anticipated El Niño season, assuring residents that contingency measures are already in place as early as May 2026.
“We are ready as early as this month of May,” said MPIW Chief Operating Officer Angelo David C. Berba during a press conference on May 20. The assurance comes as PAGASA projects a 79% probability of El Niño conditions emerging between June and August 2026, with effects expected to peak in early 2027.
Berba, joined by MPIW executives, outlined a comprehensive plan to ensure uninterrupted water service across Metro Iloilo. “We have assessed every possible supply scenario and prepared a response for each one. The plans are in place and the resources are ready,” he emphasized.
Tankers and Emergency Protocols
MPIW presented a structured framework of pre-planned response protocols for varying supply scenarios. Among the measures already implemented are:
*Bulk water supply coordination with partner agencies.
*Deployment and disinfection of static tanks.
*Valving simulations to optimize distribution.
Over 20 water tankers are on standby, supported by 24-hour monitoring teams and continuous leak detection. A public information campaign is also underway through social media, radio, barangay postings, and flyers to keep communities informed.
Expanding Water Supply
Construction of modular desalination facilities is progressing at two sites: Brgy. Nabitasan in La Paz and Ateneo de Iloilo. Once operational, these plants will convert seawater and brackish water into potable water, adding 2 million liters per day to the network—enough to serve 2,000 households daily.
“The modular desalination facilities are under active construction. Once online, they will deliver an additional 2 million liters of treated water per day directly to Iloilo households,” Berba noted.
Projects to Recover 10 MLD
MPIW’s ₱5-billion capital expenditure program covers 50 projects and 142 kilometers of pipeline from 2026 to 2027. Of this, ₱3 billion is earmarked for service improvement and non-revenue water reduction.
Currently, 11 pipeline projects are underway across Iloilo City and nearby municipalities, aimed at strengthening supply reliability. Non-revenue water recovery initiatives are also being rolled out, targeting a combined recovery of up to 10 million liters per day (MLD) lost to leaks and commercial inefficiencies.
“This investment is about ensuring consistent, reliable service for Metro Iloilo now and as the city continues to grow,” Berba stressed.
