Manila Water sustains low level of system loss

MANILA, Philippines — East Zone concessionaire Manila Water Co. Inc. maintained its non-revenue water (NRW) below 15 percent last year, keeping it among the lowest in Asia.

The water utility of billionaire Enrique Razon Jr. said its NRW, or system losses not billed to customers, averaged just 14.27 percent in 2025. This was, however, slightly higher than the 13.51 percent average recorded in 2024.

For December alone, Manila Water’s NRW stood at 13.55 percent.

The company attributed the sustained low NRW to ongoing efforts to minimize losses caused by leaks, pilferage and metering inaccuracies.

“Keeping NRW low allows more of the water we produce to reach our customers. Every liter we save strengthens the system and helps ensure that households continue to enjoy reliable, 24/7 water service,” Manila Water communication affairs group director Jeric Sevilla said.

Manila Water estimates that cutting NRW by even one percent can save up to 15 million liters of water per day.

This additional supply not only meets the needs of expanding communities but also strengthens the reliability of water service across the eastern portion of Metro Manila and Rizal, the company said.

Manila Water’s NRW falls within what the World Bank considers a healthy range, with system losses below 20 percent classified as low.

As part of its long-term strategy, Manila Water intends to focus on system efficiency to sustain its low NRW.

Current initiatives include targeted pipe and meter replacements, pressure optimization and active district metered area monitoring.

The water utility also invests in advanced digital tools to enhance response time to leaks.