Metro Pacific starts P5.5-B Iloilo desalination plant

Consumers in Iloilo City will soon benefit from a more stable water supply as Metro Pacific Water (MPW) begins construction on the country’s largest desalination facility. 

The P5.5-billion Metro Iloilo Desalination Facility broke ground on 21 February in Barangay Ingore, La Paz, Iloilo City, marking a major step toward securing the region’s water needs.  

Set to be fully operational by 2027, the facility will produce 66,500 cubic meters of potable water daily, serving over 400,000 residents and businesses. It will use reverse osmosis technology to convert seawater into drinking water, ensuring an uninterrupted supply even during droughts.  

“MPW’s commitment to providing sustainable water solutions is at the heart of this project. It underscores our dedication to supporting Iloilo’s rapid growth and development,” MPW president Cristopher Andrew Pangilinan said on Monday. 

Long-time solution

“This innovative and sustainable desalination facility will provide a long-term solution to the water challenges of Iloilo.”  

The project is a collaboration between MPW, France-based water solutions provider SUEZ, and JEMCO. SUEZ, which has 50 years of experience in seawater desalination, will play a key role in construction and operations. 

MPW, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corp., is working with bulk water suppliers to meet Iloilo’s growing demand. The desalination facility is part of MPW’s broader strategy to develop sustainable water solutions nationwide.