Boracay Water reinforces integrated approach to water and wastewater management

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.

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’s 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’s 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—a critical concern for water utilities nationwide.

To ensure proper wastewater management and safeguard Boracay’s 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.