Maynilad gets DOST-Balik Scientist program boost

MANILA, Philippines — Maynilad Water Services Inc. has received a boost from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)’s Balik Scientist Program (BSP) in its effort to generate electricity from wastewater in the country.

Australia-based Filipino Balik Scientist Mario Rebosura Jr. is in a short-term engagement with Maynilad to provide technical assistance for the development of wastewater-to-energy capability for the west zone of Metro Manila.

“My role here was to speed up their (Maynilad) understanding in how to operate these anaerobic digestion facilities and how to better manage their bio-solids produced in their treatment plants,” Rebosura said.

He said he sees Maynilad rolling out power from wastewater capability in three to five years.

“Once this is implemented by Maynilad, I believe that other water utilities can easily follow suit,” Rebosura said.

Maynilad’s participation in the DOST’s “Balik Scientist Program” involved tapping the expertise of Rebosura to help assess and pilot technologies that can transform biosolids into a source of renewable energy.

Maynilad is the first water utility to participate in the BSP, a government initiative encouraging Filipino scientists to return to the Philippines and share their expertise, enhancing the development of various sectors, including health research and development.

“This partnership with the DOST allowed us to address the challenge of biosolid disposal while tapping into renewable energy solutions, which can benefit both our operations and the environment,” said Maynilad president and CEO Ramoncito Fernandez.

“This collaboration with Maynilad underscores the critical role of science in overcoming key challenges in the water sector. Indeed, through science and technology we can provide solutions and open opportunities for the Filipino people” DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said.