Vivant Hydrocore Holdings Inc. (Vivant Water) has entered into a 25-year joint venture agreement with the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) to provide water supply to Metro Cebu residents.

The Cebu-based firm said in a media statement on Thursday that it will operate its desalination plant in Cordova, Cebu, capable of producing 20 million liters of potable water per day, which will be supplied to MCWD for distribution to its customers across the metro.

“Vivant is committed to investing in essential infrastructure that enables communities to thrive,” Vivant Corp. CEO Arlo Sarmiento said.

“This landmark partnership with MCWD is a testament to our long-term vision of providing sustainable and impactful projects that propel economic growth and improve everyday living in the communities that we serve.”

Vivant Water, through its subsidiary Isla Mactan Cordova Corp., is the first in the Philippines to develop a utility-scale seawater desalination plant.

The project will help reduce the region’s reliance on traditional freshwater sources, providing a reliable solution to Cebu's growing water needs and climate challenges.

“Water security is essential to sustainable development, and this agreement showcases our dedication to innovative solutions. Desalination provides a viable and scalable alternative to meet Cebu’s growing demand,” Sarmiento added.

The increasing water demand in Cebu, driven by population growth and urban development, has been exacerbated by climate-related factors.

In early 2024, Cebu City declared a water crisis triggered by the El Niño phenomenon, causing significant water deficits. At the height of the crisis, MCWD reported a daily shortfall of 40,000 cubic meters, later rising to 50,000 cubic meters.