In a firm commitment to its consumers, Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW) has announced that water services in Iloilo City and seven adjacent municipalities will continue without any tariff increase, despite the recent nationwide surge in fuel prices. The assurance came directly from the company's leadership during a recent media briefing, highlighting a proactive approach to shield customers from economic pressures.
Absorbing Costs to Protect Consumers
Angelo David Berba, Chief Operating Officer of MPIW, emphasized during the Kapehan sa Media event that the company is determined to maintain normal operations even as fuel costs escalate. "Our operations will continue as they are, and we will endeavor to improve. Even if we operate at a loss due to the fuel increase, our service will persist uninterrupted. There is no impending tariff increase. In fact, our service will continue to improve with all the projects that we are implementing," Berba stated confidently.
He further clarified that MPIW has not filed any application for a rate adjustment and is internally absorbing the financial challenge posed by higher fuel prices. "We are taking this burden on ourselves so that our consumers do not have to. And we are doing it while continuing to build and enhance our infrastructure," Berba added, underscoring the company's dedication to customer welfare.
Round-the-Clock Operations and Infrastructure Boost
To ensure reliable water delivery, MPIW's field teams operate seven days a week, with emergency response services available 24 hours a day to address any service concerns promptly. Office functions remain open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., while technical personnel continuously monitor water distribution systems across the region.
Despite the increased operating costs, MPIW's capital investment programs are proceeding as scheduled. A key highlight is the delivery of a modular water treatment facility, part of five newly awarded projects aimed at strengthening water supply and service reliability in Iloilo City. These initiatives are integral to a broader strategy to fortify water infrastructure and ensure long-term supply stability.
Major Project to Recover Water Supply
A significant component of this infrastructure development is the HS Jaro project, which is projected for completion between September and October this year. Once operational, this project is expected to recover at least 10 million liters per day (MLD) of additional water supply. "Our projects are designed to improve water supply and service. The HS Jaro project alone will recover at least 10 MLD once finished. That is a substantial boost, and we are moving as swiftly as possible to achieve it," Berba explained.
Government Collaboration Accelerates Progress
MPIW has received crucial support from the Iloilo City Government and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which has been instrumental in expediting project timelines. Berba expressed gratitude, noting that the Cebu City Government and DPWH have permitted round-the-clock construction activities to speed up completion. "We are very thankful to the City Government and to DPWH. They understood the urgency, responded proactively, and because of their support, work on our projects is now running 24 hours. That kind of partnership is what drives progress for our customers," he said.
This cooperation between the utility and government agencies is anticipated to fast-track infrastructure improvements, enhancing overall service efficiency and resilience.
Preparations for Future Challenges
Looking ahead, MPIW is also preparing for potential dry conditions linked to the projected El Niño phenomenon next year. The modular facilities are specifically designed to boost water treatment capacity and help maintain supply during periods of limited raw water availability. These preparations are part of a comprehensive approach to ensure continuous water delivery, even in adverse environmental conditions.
In summary, MPIW's priority remains steadfast: to deliver uninterrupted water services while expanding infrastructure to support sustainable supply stability, all without passing on the burden of rising fuel costs to consumers.
