The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) has announced the construction of a P1.1 billion wastewater treatment facility within the Clark Freeport Zone. The project aims to address environmental concerns and support the growing industrial and commercial activities in the area.
Project Details and Capacity
The facility will have a treatment capacity of 10 million liters per day (MLD), according to CDC President and CEO Manuel Gaerlan. He stated that the plant will use advanced technology to ensure treated water meets environmental standards set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
The project is part of CDC's infrastructure development plan to enhance the freeport's competitiveness and attract more investors. Gaerlan emphasized the importance of sustainable development, noting that the facility will help protect the environment while supporting economic growth.
Funding and Timeline
The P1.1 billion project will be funded through a public-private partnership (PPP) scheme. CDC has already secured a joint venture agreement with a private partner, and construction is expected to begin within the year. The facility is projected to be operational by 2025.
Gaerlan said that the project will create jobs during construction and operation phases. He also noted that the facility will serve existing locators and accommodate future expansion of the freeport.
Environmental Impact
The wastewater treatment plant is designed to address pollution concerns from industrial and commercial establishments in Clark Freeport. Currently, some locators treat their own wastewater, but the new centralized facility will provide a more efficient and cost-effective solution.
CDC Vice President for Engineering and Infrastructure, Engr. Arnel Canlas, explained that the plant will use a combination of physical, chemical, and biological processes to remove contaminants. The treated water will be reused for non-potable purposes, such as irrigation and industrial cooling, reducing the demand for fresh water.
Canlas added that the facility will help Clark Freeport comply with Republic Act 9275, or the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004, which mandates the treatment of wastewater before disposal.
Economic Benefits
The project is expected to boost Clark Freeport's appeal to investors, particularly those in manufacturing and logistics sectors that require reliable wastewater treatment services. Gaerlan noted that the facility will also reduce operational costs for locators by providing a shared treatment system.
“This facility is a game-changer for Clark Freeport. It will not only protect the environment but also make the freeport more attractive to investors who prioritize sustainability,” Gaerlan said.
The CDC is also exploring the possibility of expanding the facility's capacity in the future to meet increasing demand.
