The second phase of the largest privately-led water supply infrastructure project in the country is progressing ahead of schedule. WawaJVCo Inc., the project’s proponent, has announced that the 85-meter roller compacted concrete (RCC) dam is now 93 percent complete as of February 28.
WawaJVCo is a joint venture between Filipino businessman Enrique Razon Jr.’s Prime Infrastructure Capital Inc. and San Lorenzo Ruiz Builders and Developers Group Inc. Their collaboration aims to address water security through the Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project in Rizal, which is one of the national government’s infrastructure flagship projects.
This project is significant as it will be the largest water supply dam constructed in over 50 years. Once completed, it will increase Manila Water Co.’s (MWC) capacity by over 30 percent of its current water supply allocation from the Angat Dam, providing approximately 1,600 million liters per day (MLD).
The Upper Wawa Dam, as part of the project, will play a crucial role in addressing water security and ensuring sustainable water supply to benefit over 700,000 households or about 3.5 million Filipinos within the service area of MWSS (Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System). WawaJVCo emphasizes that the dam’s substantial capacity and innovative design hold immense potential to enhance water security and resilience, thereby avoiding a water crisis in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
In addition to its primary purpose of providing a reliable water supply source, the Upper Wawa Dam will also contribute to mitigating the perennial problem of flooding in the downstream areas and localities of the Marikina River. By implementing gold standards and utilizing state-of-the-art technology in the dam’s design, WawaJVCo ensures its efficiency and reliability in the long term.
The first phase of the Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project, the Tayabasan Weir, became operational in October 2022, achieving completion in record time. With the second phase progressing well, the commercial operation of the entire project is expected to commence by late 2025.
The Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project is a significant milestone in addressing the water needs of the growing population in Metro Manila and its neighboring provinces. By increasing water supply capacity and implementing innovative infrastructure, the project contributes to water security and resilience in the region. It is a testament to the collaboration between the private sector and the government in addressing critical infrastructure challenges.
As the second phase nears completion, the successful implementation of the Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project sets a positive precedent for future infrastructure developments in the country. It demonstrates the potential for private sector involvement in addressing national priorities and ensuring the well-being of the Filipino people.
In conclusion, the progress of the second phase of the Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project brings optimism for improved water security and resilience in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. With its innovative design and substantial capacity, the Upper Wawa Dam will not only provide a reliable water supply but also contribute to mitigating flooding issues. The collaboration between WawaJVCo and the government showcases the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in addressing critical infrastructure needs. As the project moves closer to completion, it sets an encouraging example for future infrastructure projects in the country, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning and sustainable development.
Source: The Manila Times
