MANILA, Philippines 鈥� With the increasing demands of tourism, ensuring a reliable and efficient water supply while maintaining environmental sustainability is a critical challenge for water operators in the Philippines.
In Boracay Island, Boracay Water, an operating unit of Manila Water Philippine Ventures and a concessionaire of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), has effectively tackled these challenges through an integrated approach. This comprehensive, multi-faceted program focuses on reducing non-revenue water (NRW), optimizing energy efficiency, and expanding sustainable wastewater management, while bolstering Boracay鈥檚 thriving economy and sustainability
Reducing NRW is a top priority for Philippine water operators striving for operational efficiency and sustainability. Through targeted efforts in leak detection, pipe replacements, and real-time monitoring, Boracay Water has successfully reduced non-revenue water (NRW) from 30% in 2022 to 19% in 2024. This achievement translates to an additional 1.075 million liters of water recovered daily, benefiting additional 7,500 residents and businesses while alleviating pressure on the Nabaoy River, Boracay鈥檚 sole freshwater source.
In parallel with its NRW reduction initiatives, Boracay Water has improved its energy efficiency index from 0.54 to 0.42 kWh/cu.m. This was accomplished through smart reservoir level adjustments, pump scheduling optimization, and fine-tuning of Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs). Over the past three years, these measures have resulted in energy savings of 1.68 million kWh, avoiding costs of USD 292,727. This operational efficiency not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also ensures cost-effective service delivery鈥攁 critical concern for water utilities nationwide.
To ensure proper wastewater management and safeguard Boracay鈥檚 pristine waters, Boracay Water has upgraded its 5-MLD Manocmanoc Sewage Treatment Plant from Conventional Activated Sludge to a Membrane Bioreactor with Biological Nutrient Removal (MBR-BNR). This cutting-edge technology guarantees high-efficiency pollutant removal without the need for chemical disinfection, setting a national precedent for wastewater innovation.
Additionally, the business unit has expanded sewer coverage by 32%, now connecting 7,329 households and businesses to its system, further preventing contamination of the island鈥檚 waterways and ensuring long-term sanitation security for Boracay.
Boracay Water鈥檚 integrated operational strategy underscores the power of comprehensive solutions in securing a sustainable water supply, enhancing operational efficiency, and implementing forward-thinking wastewater management.
These initiatives have brought the business unit several accolades, such as the Special Award in Energy Efficiency Excellence from the Department of Energy and an Anvil Award for outstanding environmental efforts. Furthermore, it has gained strong support from local government leaders, including the Governor and Mayor of Aklan.
鈥淏oracay鈥檚 economy relies heavily on tourism, welcoming 2.1 million visitors in 2024 and generating significant revenue for both the public and private sector. By ensuring clean and reliable water supply, improving operational efficiency, and safeguarding the marine ecosystem, Boracay Water plays a crucial role in protecting both Boracay鈥檚 environment and its economic future,鈥� says Bryan Magallanes, General Manager of Boracay Water.
For Philippine water operators, Boracay Water鈥檚 success highlights that reducing NRW, improving energy efficiency, and investing in sustainable wastewater solutions are not only environmental imperatives but also key drivers of long-term operational success. The Company also believes that the positive impact of Boracay Water鈥檚 initiatives reaches beyond Boracay, especially as Philippine water operators navigate increasing urbanization, water scarcity, and rising energy costs.