Manila Water’s subsidiary, Boracay Island Water Company, has officially announced the completion of a major expansion to its sewer network, marking a critical milestone in the ongoing environmental preservation of the world-famous tourist destination. This infrastructure project is part of a multi-year strategic plan to ensure that 100 percent of the island’s households and commercial establishments are connected to a centralized wastewater treatment system. By expanding the reach of its underground pipeline network, the company aims to eliminate the risk of untreated wastewater discharging into the island’s pristine white sand beaches and sensitive marine ecosystems.
The expansion involved the installation of high-density polyethylene pipes across several key zones in Balabag and Yapak, areas that have seen a significant surge in tourism-related development over the past year. These new lines are designed to handle increased flow volumes during peak seasons, ensuring that the island’s carrying capacity for visitors remains sustainable without compromising water quality. Boracay Water has also integrated advanced lift stations and monitoring sensors along the new route, allowing technical teams to detect and address potential blockages or leaks in real-time before they can impact the environment.
Beyond infrastructure, the project emphasizes the importance of the “Sewer Connection Program,” which encourages local business owners and residents to voluntarily decommission their old septic tanks in favor of the centralized system. Manila Water officials highlighted that this move is essential for the long-term health of the island’s groundwater table and the surrounding Sibuyan Sea. As Boracay continues to position itself as a global model for sustainable island tourism, the expansion of its sewer network serves as a foundational element in maintaining the “Class SB” water quality rating required for primary contact recreation like swimming and diving.
With additional report: www.philstar.com
