Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc. (AIC) has significantly enhanced water security for businesses operating within the Mactan Economic Zone 2 (MEZ2) through the official inauguration of its state-of-the-art desalination facility. This strategic move ensures a more dependable and diversified water supply for industrial locators and critical airport operations, addressing growing demands in the region.
Inauguration and Technical Details
On March 19, 2026, AIC formally inaugurated the MEZ2 Desalination Facility, marking its entry into the desalination sector as part of a broader water portfolio totaling 320 million liters per day (MLD). The facility boasts a rated capacity of five MLD, utilizing advanced reverse osmosis and filtration technologies to transform brackish lagoon water into a potable supply. This innovation directly benefits 42 locators and approximately 12,000 employees within the MEZ2 Estate, while also supporting the Mactan-Cebu International Airport, a vital logistics hub that handled around 12 million passengers in 2025.
Enhancing Operational Continuity
For businesses in the economic zone, this project is a game-changer, reducing reliance on traditional freshwater sources that are increasingly strained due to rapid urban and industrial growth in Lapu-Lapu City. The availability of a stable, on-site potable water source is expected to bolster business resilience, particularly for water-intensive industries and export-oriented firms, ensuring uninterrupted operations and fostering economic stability.
Leadership Perspectives
Eduardo "Dudes" Aboitiz, Vice President and Head of Water at AIC, emphasized the proactive nature of this initiative. He stated, "As Lapu-Lapu City continues to rapidly develop, water security becomes even more critical. We must utilize all available water sources to deliver a reliable and safe supply." This reflects a forward-thinking approach to infrastructure development, aligning with broader sustainability goals.
Proven Effectiveness and Community Impact
Operational since June 2025, the desalination plant has already demonstrated its value during emergencies. It supplied over 500,000 liters of potable water across Cebu following disruptions from Typhoon Tino in November and the Cebu earthquake in September, highlighting its role as a contingency source for both locators and surrounding communities. This underscores the facility's dual purpose in supporting industrial needs and public welfare.
Government Endorsement
Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Maria Cynthia "Cindi" King-Chan praised the investment, noting that it showcases innovation in infrastructure that benefits both economic zones and public utilities. This collaboration between private enterprise and local government sets a precedent for future projects aimed at enhancing regional resilience and growth.
