Manila Water ramps up deep well output

Amid tight supply from Angat Dam

MANILA, Philippines —  Razon-led Manila Water Co. Inc. is planning to boost its deep well production to around 80 million liters per day (MLD) before the government implements the reduced water allocation for Metro Manila in the coming weeks.

“That is the current target, and it would be best if we could hit this even before the NWRB (National Water Resources Board) decides to reduce the allocation from Angat (Dam),” Manila Water corporate communications head Dittie Galang told The STAR.

Manila Water is “going to maximize” the 38 deep wells within the East Zone of Metro Manila and some parts of Rizal, Galang said.

The East Zone concessionaire said it is “gradually increasing” its activation of deep wells within the concession area with capacity reaching now up to 67.06 MLD compared to 60.21 MLD on March 15.

“This is a steady improvement of almost seven MLD,”  Manila Water said.

“At this rate, the improved deep well operations could provide the daily water needs of up to 335,000 customers,” it added.

The company pointed out that the deep wells would boost water supply to its customers and ease the strain on Angat Dam, particularly in anticipation of Metro Manila’s reduced water allocation starting April 16.

Last month, the NWRB approved the reduction of the water allocation for Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System to 48 cubic meters per second (cms) by April 16 from the present 50 cms amid El Niño threats on Angat Dam’s water level.

“We are working closely with the MWSS and NWRB to preserve Angat Dam’s working level,” Manila Water’s Corporate Communications Affairs Group Director Jeric Sevilla said.

“In addition, the company has been carrying out water supply augmentation programs, which include deep well maximization,” Sevilla added.