MWSS mulls scaled-down Laiban Dam project

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) is considering a scaled down version of the Laiban Dam bulkwater project together with Manila Water Co. and Maynilad Water Services Inc.

MWSS Administrator Diosdado Jose Allado who said he is meeting with the presidents of the Ayala-owned Manila Water and MPIC-DMCI controlled Maynilad to discuss the possibility of the two groups constructing the dam themselves on a phase-by-phase basis. He said the cost of the project is still likely to be around $1.3 billion.

An unsolicited proposal submitted by San Miguel Bulkwater Co. was earlier rejected by MWSS, although Allado was quick to point out that “we have not completely closed the door on San Miguel or to any other unsolicited proposal.”

In fact, he said, MWSS has received at least three “feelers” – one from a foreign firm and two fromlocal proponents. Allado did not identify the interested parties since they have not submitted any formal proposal.

Allado said the MWSS can not do the project by itself because it is hampered by a borrowing cap of $600 million under its current charter.

He urged the next Congress to amend the MWSS charter and allow it more flexibility in seeking funds for much needed capital expenditures.