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Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project

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Reliable water supply supports small business growth in Davao City

by Contributor
written by Contributor

DAVAO CITY — Reliable access to treated water is helping small businesses in Davao City maintain daily operations and serve customers, as the city’s expanded water supply reaches essential water-dependent enterprises such as local carwashes and public market stalls.

For business owners like Desiderio Lacia keeping a small enterprise running depends on having reliable access to basic utilities such as electricity and water. Lacia owns Lacia’s Carwash in Communal, Buhangin, Davao City, where water is essential to nearly every service the business provides.

“Tanan gamitunon, kung walay tubig, wala na. Importante ang tubig kay kung wala na, wala pud– walay hugas,” Lacia said. (Everything we use depends on water. Without water, there is nothing. Water is important because without it, there is no washing)

Water that keeps business moving

Lacia’s Carwash has been operating at its current location in Communal for nearly two years. The business provides a range of vehicle services, including detailing, engine wash, underwash, cleaning of windows and other vehicle parts, vacuuming, waxing, and buffing.

On regular days, the carwash serves about 15 to 20 vehicles, while the number can increase to 40 to 50 vehicles on weekends. Because of the high number of vehicles, the business needs a steady supply of water to keep its operations running smoothly throughout the day. The four workers handle the washing and other services themselves. Before starting work, they fill four drums with water and refill them as needed during the day.

“Kanang upat ka drum pun-on jud na, pagkahuman spray na pud nimo, unya pun-on na pud para dili ma-delay ang spray sa sakyanan,” Lacia explained. (Those four drums have to be filled. Once we use the water for spraying, we fill them up again so there is no delay in washing the vehicles.)

For a small business that earns from every vehicle it serves, an interruption in water supply can mean fewer customers served and lost income.

Similarly, Panacan market vendor Doris Arones said that a dependable water supply is important for her business. She uses water to clean fish, make ice, and keep her work area clean. She added that without enough water, it would be harder to keep the fish fresh, which could affect her sales.

“Sa isda, sa pag-ice, paglimpyo, tanan. Gamit gyud siya tanan,” Arones said. (We use it for everything with the fish—adding ice, cleaning, and all the other tasks.)

Empowering local businesses with sustainable water

Lacia’s Carwash and Arones’ stall at Panacan Market are among the businesses in Davao City that benefit from the city’s improved access to treated surface water through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP).

The DCBWSP, a joint venture between Davao City Water District (DCWD) and Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (Apo Agua), brings treated surface water from the Tamugan River into Davao City’s water supply system.

The project is designed to provide up to 300 million liters per day (MLD) of treated bulk water to DCWD, helping diversify the city’s water sources and strengthen the reliability of its water supply.

For businesses in areas such as in Communal and Buhangin, having a reliable supply of quality water helps them run their daily operations, from cleaning vehicles and serving customers to maintaining their services and providing jobs.

For Lacia, the project means having a reliable water supply for his carwash. “Mas nindot ang performance [karon], hinlo kaayo ang agi… Gwapo ang resulta pag-spray nimo sa tubig, hapsay kaayo. Tin-aw jud,” he said. (The performance is better now. The water is very clean, and the results are good. When you spray the water, it works smoothly and leaves the vehicle looking clear and clean.)

The same reliable water supply also helps small businesses like Doris Arones’ seafood stall at the Panacan Public Market, where she uses water to clean her products, keep her stall sanitary, and safely serve customers throughout the day. “Karon, bahala’g mag-awas-awas ang tubig, at least naa ra siya tapad sa among stall,” Arones said (Now, even if the water spills over, it’s okay because the water source is right next to our stall), highlighting how having water readily available has made her daily work easier.

Quality matters

For Lacia, having enough water is important, but the quality of water also affects the service he provides. This is especially true when washing white vehicles, as dirty or cloudy water can leave marks and affect how the vehicle looks after cleaning. “Mag-matter jud ang quality sa tubig. Kung muawas ka unya puti imong sakyanan, unya ang tubig lubog-lubog, lain pud ang resulta,” Lacia said. (The quality of the water really matters. If you wash a white car with cloudy or dirty water, the result won’t look good)

Lacia’s Car Wash uses water supplied by DCWD, which he said is cleaner and clearer. He said this helps him provide better service, from washing outside of the vehicle to cleaning its windows and other parts. “Kung limpyo ang tubig, limpyo pud ang carwash nato sa mga salamin ug tanan na mga parts sa mga sakyanan,” Lacia added. (When the water is clean, the cars also come out clean, including the windows and all other parts.)

The Davao bulk water project recently received an Excellent Rating of 95.17% from the Department of Health (DOH) – Davao Center for Health Development, following the renewal of its Water Safety Plan (WSP). This rating shows that the project meets the key requirements for managing risks, ensuring water quality, and maintaining proper treatment. This ensures a safe and reliable treated surface water supply in Davao City, supporting small businesses and communities.

Enabling small Dabawenyo businesses to serve

Both Lacia and Arones’ experiences reflect the wider role of MSMEs in the city’s economy.

Latest data from the Davao City Business Bureau show 45,621 business permit applications from January 1 to 31, 2026, up 3 percent from the same period in 2025. Retail and service businesses make up a large share of new registrations, showing the important role of MSMEs in Davao’s economy.

For this growth to continue, businesses need a reliable water supply for their daily operations. This is especially important for water-dependent businesses such as carwashes, carinderias, laundry shops, and other service establishments.

For these MSMEs, improved access to a reliable water supply helps them serve customers and stay open. At Lacia’s Carwash, it allows workers to wash vehicles and provide services. At Arones’ market stall, it helps keep produce fresh and the space clean for customers.

“Gamit jud ang tubig, especially water district. Need jud na sa tao,” Lacia said. (Water is really important, especially water from the water district. People really need it.)

As Davao City’s economy continues to grow, reliable access to dependable utilities can help small businesses stay competitive and find new opportunities to grow. For business owners like Desiderio Lacia and Doris Arones, water is more than just a basic need. It helps them serve their customers, keep their businesses running, and support their livelihoods.

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Reliable water eases everyday life for Dabawenya mothers

by Contributor
written by Contributor

A reliable water supply has become one of Davao City’s quiet success stories. More than supporting the city’s growth, it has made everyday life easier for thousands of families. For Dabawenya mothers, it means simply turning on the tap and having water when they need it, giving them more time to care for their loved ones

According to global nonprofit organization Water.org, access to reliable water is a deeply personal issue for many women, who often bear the responsibility of securing water for their families. “For women, the water crisis is personal. They are responsible for finding a resource their families need to survive—for drinking, cooking, sanitation and hygiene. They may stand in line and wait for water, walk long distances to collect water, or pay exorbitant amounts of money to secure water,” the organization said.

In the Philippines, access to reliable water remains a challenge in some communities. According to a study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), only 24.2% of Filipino families get their drinking water from piped water services. Many others rely on water refilling stations, public wells, and water tankers.

For Dabawenyas like Flora Mae Casa of Emily Homes in Cabantian, reliable water is essential in creating a more comfortable and dignified life for their families.

A collective effort to provide water access for communities

Without reliable access to water, women—especially mothers—often take on the responsibility of making sure their families have enough clean water at home. A separate World Health Organization (WHO) report found that women and girls aged 15 and above collect water in 7 out of 10 households worldwide.

According to Flora Mae Casa, President of the Emily Homes Women’s Association, limited access to water often kept residents from doing other important tasks because they had to prioritize securing clean water for their households. With most residents working, the community relied on shared efforts to buy and collect water whenever supplies became available.

“Yun yung mga like, naga-buy kami sa Dumoy and then tulungan kami. Every time na may fire truck na mag-supply ng water sa’min. And then diba most of the residents here ay working, so tulungan namin,” Casa said. “Tinutulungan namin din na makaipon sila para pag-uwi nila meron din. So dahil sa pagtutulungan namin and then yung expense, extra expenses for the water, nakasurvive din kami,” she added.

(“We used to buy water in Dumoy, and then we’d all help each other out whenever a fire truck came to supply water to our area. Since most of the residents here work, we’d pitch in to help,” Casa said. “We also helped them store water so that when they got home from work, they’d have some, too. Through our mutual help and by taking on those extra expenses for water, we managed to survive,” she added.)

Accessible water empowers women in Davao City

Today, Davao City is responding to the city’s growing water needs through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project, a partnership between the Davao City Water District (DCWD) and Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc. Together, the project now delivers 300 million liters of safe drinking water every day.

The bulk water project helps the water district meet the city’s growing water demand while improving water reliability and accessibility. This is supported by DCWD’s continuing investments in expanding its distribution network across the city,

Improvements in Davao City’s water supply through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project give Dabawenya moms more time for what matters most.

Casa shared that the improvements in the water supply has helped support women in Emily Homes, allowing them to do other activities that support their families and homes.

“It really helps kay, diba, lalo na if women so meron silang mga babies, so need water talaga for household cleaning and even us as working din na moms, lahat tayo ang water is the most basic need natin for personal hygiene, for drinking, cleaning and laundry. So, malaki ang naitulong niya sa pag-improve ng Apo Agua sa tubig naman dito, sa supply ng tubig namin sa Emily Homes,”Casa noted.

(“It’s a huge help because, especially for women with babies, water is an absolute necessity for household cleaning. Even for us working moms, water is the most basic need for everyone—for personal hygiene, drinking, cleaning, and laundry. So, Apo Agua’s efforts to improve our water supply here in Emily Homes have really been a massive help,” Casa noted.)

Stories like Casa’s are becoming more common across Davao City. For many families, reliable water is no longer something they have to plan their day around. It has become something they can count on.

Casa’s experience reflects how reliable water services can make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of women and families. Time once spent in storing water, waiting for deliveries or worrying about supply can now be spent helping children with school, running small businesses, earning a living or enjoying more quality time as a family.

As Davao City continues to grow, reliable water has become one of the foundations of a healthier, more resilient and more inclusive community. The Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project is helping ensure that more families experience the simple but life-changing confidence of turning the tap anytime and knowing safe water will be there. It is a reminder that investments in essential infrastructure ultimately improve the everyday life of every Dabawenya.

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Davao City Business Sector Sustained by Reliable Water Supply

by Contributor
written by Contributor

DAVAO CITY — As Davao City’s business sector continues to expand, reliable infrastructure, including water services, plays an increasingly important role in supporting business operations, investment, and economic growth.

From January 1 to 31, 2026, the Davao City Business Bureau recorded 45,621 new business permit applications, up 3% from 44,410 applications from January 1 to 31, 2025 – highlighting sustained business confidence and investment activity in Davao City.

“Most of our registrations are coming from retail and services—sari-sari stores, groceries, distributors, and all kinds of service contractors,” Business Bureau Head Maribel T. Paguican had said.

Previously, business permit applications rose to a record 52,219 applications for the full year 2024, up from 50,792 for the entire 2023 and 49,935 for the entire 2022. Of full year 2024 figure, about 12% or 6,496 were new business permit applications.

With the increasing number of registered enterprises in the city, access to dependable infrastructure, power, and water services are key factors in supporting business continuity and maintaining Davao City’s competitiveness as an investment destination. These make Davao City well positioned compared to other major cities facing growing water supply challenges.

Helping to strengthen Davao City’s water system is the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP), a public-private partnership between the Davao City Water District (DCWD) and Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc.

Through the project, Apo Agua develops and operates the bulk water facility that treats surface water sourced from the Tamugan River and supplies up to 300 million liters of treated water per day to DCWD. This additional supply supports the city’s growing water requirements and helps strengthen the reliability of water services for households, businesses, and institutions.

“Davao City continues to maintain a secure and resilient water supply system, making it one of the key factors that enable businesses to operate efficiently, expand confidently, and invest in the city,” Paguican said. She also added that a reliable water supply reinforces Davao City’s position as a competitive and business-friendly destination for investors.

The additional water supply helps improve service reliability, supports more consistent water delivery, and enables the utility to expand service to more customers as demand continues to grow.

Reliable Water for a Growing Economy

For Davao City businesses, reliable water service is more than a basic utility, it is critical infrastructure.

“Mamroblema gyud mi sauna kay tig two days jud mawala ang tubig, maong magkuha na lang mi ug panghakot, usahay pinakalit ra mawala ang tubig maong maguol gyud mi. Karon wala na kaayo mi kadungog ug water interruption, kusog na pud ang pressure (We really had problems before because the water would be gone for two days at a time, so we had to fetch water ourselves. Sometimes, it would suddenly stop without warning, which really stressed us out. Now, we hardly experience any water interruptions, and the pressure is strong again.),” said carinderia owner Evelyn del Campo of Barangay Indangan previously.

Manufacturers, food processors, hospitals, hotels, commercial establishments, and office developments rely on consistent water supply to maintain operations, protect productivity, and support future expansion.

As Davao City continues to attract investments and businesses, resilient water infrastructure will remain fundamental to sustaining growth.

Through a more reliable water supply system, the DCBWSP is helping build the foundation for a more competitive and business-friendly city.

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El Niño Highlights Importance of Diverse Water Sources in Davao City

by Contributor
written by Contributor

As El Niño develops, the need for a more resilient water system in Davao City becomes even more important.

The Department of Science and Technology-PAGASA (DOST-PAGASA) has warned that El Niño is likely to develop in the coming months, bringing prolonged dry conditions that may place pressure on water resources. In its recent advisory, the agency reported that Davao City and the provinces of Davao del Sur and Davao del Norte recorded below-normal rainfall from April to June 2026, with El Niño expected to strengthen toward the latter part of the year.

“Alam natin a strong El Niño can bring below normal rainfall, prolonged dry conditions, water shortages and adverse impacts on key sectors particularly agriculture, energy, health and other sectors,” DOST-PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel Servando said. “While these impacts are months away, the time to prepare is now.”

As climate change continues to bring more frequent and extreme weather events, strengthening long-term water security has become increasingly important. Recognizing this, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has emphasized diversifying water sources as a key strategy for building more resilient water systems.

During preparations for the 2023 El Niño and amid concerns over Metro Manila’s water supply, DENR Water Resources Management head Undersecretary Carlos David stressed the importance of

“diversify[ing] our sources of water and not to rely too much” on a single source, emphasizing that multiple water sources help strengthen supply resilience during prolonged dry conditions. The same principle is relevant for other growing urban centers, such as Davao City. The challenge is simple: how to ensure families and businesses continue to have water even during prolonged dry periods.

The same principle is relevant for other growing urban centers, such as Davao City. The challenge is simple: how to ensure families and businesses continue to have water even during prolonged dry periods.

One strategy that supports this objective is the conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater sources. By utilizing multiple sources, water utilities can strengthen supply reliability, reduce dependence on a single resource, and enhance overall system resilience.

Surface water, sourced from rivers and watersheds, provides a sustainable and renewable component of the city’s water supply. Groundwater, drawn from deep aquifers, continues to play an important role in maintaining supply stability, particularly during prolonged dry conditions.

As many urban areas prepare for the challenges brought by the El Niño, Davao City demonstrates how combining both surface and groundwater sources offer resilient solutions to advance water security amid the prolonged dry season.

The Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP), a public-private partnership between the Davao City Water District (DCWD) and Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (Apo Agua), contributes up to 300 million liters of treated surface water daily from the Tamugan River. This treated water is integrated into DCWD’s distribution network, complementing existing groundwater sources and strengthening the city’s overall water supply system.

The value of diversified water sources becomes especially evident during climate events such as El Niño. When weather conditions become less predictable, having multiple water sources provides greater flexibility for utilities to manage supply and maintain service continuity for consumers.

Since it began operations, the DCBWSP has become an important part of Davao City’s water supply system, helping deliver treated surface water to more than one million residents. By adding another reliable water source, the project strengthens DCWD’s ability to provide a consistent and reliable water service to Davao City, even during El Niño.

As water demand continues to grow, this integrated approach to water resource management strengthens Davao City’s water security while supporting sustainable development.

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Reliable Water Helps Davao Businesses Save Money and Grow, Ateneo Study Finds

by Contributor
written by Contributor

A water refilling station in Barangay Cabantian reported that improved water reliability has helped streamline operations and provide better service to customers.

Improved water service following the implementation of the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP) has helped small businesses reduce operating costs and grow revenues, according to a study conducted by researchers from Ateneo de Davao University.

The study, “Lived Experiences of Water Consumers in District 2 of Davao City Before and After the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project,” documented how households and microenterprises in District 2 experienced significant improvements in water quality, supply reliability, and overall service delivery after the project became operational.

“The [Davao City] Bulk Water Supply Project has not only simplified household chores and reduced expenses for residents but has also significantly improved the economic environment for businesses,” the study read.

Conducted by the Ateneo de Davao University Center for Business Research and Extension, the study examined the daily experiences of water consumers in District 2 before and after the project’s implementation.

Among the businesses featured in the research was a small eatery in Barangay Indangan that experienced a notable improvement in its day-to-day operations after gaining access to a more dependable water supply.

The business previously experienced unexpected water interruptions that affected their business operations but to continue serving customers, the owner had to transport water from other sources using service vehicles, adding time, effort, and operating expenses.

Today, the owner shared that water pressure and flow have become stronger and more consistent. The improved reliability has helped them streamline daily operations, allowing the business to prepare food more efficiently and provide better service to customers.

“Sauna tung magpa-awas pa mi ug 30 minutes bago magamit ang tubig, dako gyud among bill. Sacrifice lang gyud kay dili man pud pwede nga dili namo i-drain, kung matin-aw na saka pa namo gamiton. Dako gyud ug consume sa tubig sauna, musaka ug ₱4,000 kada bulan diri ra sa carinderia. Consider na lang namo kay kada adlaw man pud namo gamiton. Karon among bill kay average ₱2,400 na lang ang bayrunon.”

(Before, we had to let the water run for around 30 minutes before we could use it because it wasn’t yet clear. It significantly increased our water bill, but we had no choice. Our monthly bill used to reach around ₱4,000. Now, our average monthly bill is only about ₱2,400.)

Researchers Dr. Cleofe A. Arib, Mr. Leopoldo D. Medina, and Dr. Lenore A. Loqueloque noted that the improvements in water service helped support business continuity while allowing entrepreneurs to focus on expanding their operations instead of managing water-related challenges.

Carinderia in Barangay Indangan featured in the Ateneo de Davao University study.

The study also found that these benefits were not unique to food businesses – similar improvements were reported by other microenterprises.

A water refilling station in Barangay Cabantian reported significantly lower maintenance expenses after improved raw water quality reduced the frequency of filter replacement from once every week to only once a month. Reliable water supply enabled the business to increase production and better meet customer demand.

“Karon so far okay na jud siya. Ang flow sa water, wala na jud naga-interrupt, diretso-diretso na jud. Dili na parehas dati nga mag-apas mi aron mapuno among tangke. Karon kampante nami nga anytime mag-refill mi, naa gyuy tubig. Okay kaayo ang supply. Nonstop na ang supply.”

(“Now, everything has been going well. The water flow is strong, and there are no more interruptions – it runs continuously. Unlike before, we no longer have to rush to fill our tanks whenever the water returns. We’re now confident that whenever we need to refill, there’s always water available. The supply has been very reliable and continuous.”)

The owner also observed a noticeable improvement in water quality. Clearer water has reduced the need for frequent filter replacement, helping lower maintenance costs while allowing the business to maximize the use of its filtration system.

“Dako kaayo siya’g bag-o. Clear ra gyud kaayo siya. Karon malimit na namo ang pag-ilis sa among filter tungod kay limpyo na ang tubig.”

(“The improvement has been significant. The water is much clearer now. Because of its better quality, we no longer have to replace our filters as often, which has helped us manage our maintenance costs.”)

These experiences demonstrate how reliable water access extends beyond household convenience and contributes to local economic development by helping businesses operate more efficiently and serve their communities more effectively.

The improvements stem from the DCBWSP, a partnership between the Davao City Water District (DCWD) and Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc., and the country’s largest private bulk water facilities. Through the project, Apo Agua produces and treats bulk water sourced from the Tamugan River and delivers it to DCWD, which then distributes the water to households and businesses across Davao City, strengthening the city’s water security while supporting its growing population and economy.

Beyond improving water security, the Ateneo study also suggests that dependable access to clean water can help strengthen microenterprises, improve livelihoods, and create new economic opportunities within communities.

As Davao City continues to grow, investments in reliable water infrastructure remain essential in supporting families, empowering entrepreneurs, and sustaining the city’s long-term economic development.

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Davao City Bulk Water Project improves water quality and pressure in Davao City, with high customer satisfaction reported

by Contributor
written by Contributor

DAVAO CITY — In every classroom, learning begins with the basics. Beyond books, lessons and dedicated teachers, students need a safe and healthy environment to help them focus and thrive.

This is the principle behind the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Schools (WinS) Program, which aims to improve the learning and health outcomes of Filipino students through a comprehensive, sustainable, and scalable school-based WASH program. The initiative supports the State’s mandate to protect children from conditions that could hinder their development and well-being.

For Cabantian Elementary School teacher Riza Paler, one of the most important is access to reliable water — a resource that supports the health, cleanliness, and well-being of both students and teachers every day.

“Water plays a big role for us as a school because it helps in our cleanliness and also our well-being,” Paler shared, reflecting on her more than 20 years of teaching. Whether for handwashing, maintaining clean facilities, or supporting a healthy learning environment, dependable access to water helps ensure that her students can focus on what matters most — learning and growing.

Reliable Water for Schools and Communities

The experience of educators like Paler reflects a broader trend across Davao City, where consumers are reporting improvements in water quality, water pressure, and service reliability. Recently, the Davao City Water District (DCWD) received a 98.3% customer satisfaction rating in a 2025 Customer Satisfaction Survey conducted by SVM Research Consultancy Services.

With the integration of treated surface water into Davao City’s water supply through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP), a public-private partnership between Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (Apo Agua) and the Davao City Water District (DCWD), essential institutions such as schools continue to benefit from more reliable water access.

The positive results underscore the impact of the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project. Through this project, up to 300 million liters of treated surface water from the Tamugan River is delivered daily to the Davao City Water District (DCWD) for distribution throughout Davao City.

“Dako gyud kaayog kalabutan ang tubig sa learning development sa among mga bata (Water has a huge impact on the learning development of our students.),” said Sasa Elementary School Principal Leonardo Tiongson.

For many other residents, the benefits are felt in their daily lives through stronger and more consistent water pressure, improved water quality, and more dependable water service. These improvements help make everyday activities such as bathing, cooking, washing clothes, cleaning, and other household tasks more convenient.

Strengthening a Sustainable Water Supply

The DCBWSP has strengthened Davao City’s water supply system by providing a sustainable source of treated surface water that complements existing groundwater sources. This supports DCWD’s efforts to improve water reliability, reduce pressure on underground aquifers, and enhance service delivery.

For many Dabawenyos, the result is a more dependable water supply that better supports daily life.

As one of the country’s largest operating private bulk water supply facilities, the DCBWSP continues to play a critical role in strengthening Davao City’s water security and supporting the city’s long-term growth and resilience.

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How Improved Access to Water is Improving Lives in Davao City

by Contributor
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The Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project’s Water Treatment Plant in Davao City

DAVAO CITY – For many families in Davao City’s Barangay Cabantian, water used to cost more because of limited access.

Before, limited water supply made access to safe drinking water difficult. Many families, especially from Upper Cabantian, had to buy water from vendors for drinking and cooking, often at prices more expensive than piped water, adding to their household expenses.

Because water was not available 24/7, residents also had to wake up early in the morning to collect and store water for the day.

Today, with a more reliable water supply, families can now save on costs, spend less time securing water and focus more on their daily needs.

“Many are truly happy, especially those in Upper Cabantian,” said Barangay Captain Nilo C. Cabiles. “The people of Cabantian, especially in the upper part, spend a lot because you have to buy purified water for cooking and drinking. Now some have tested and tasted the water, and it’s okay for them.”

For Cabiles, the change finally achieved something that residents have hoped for over many years. “We have indeed realized our long-awaited goal: the improvement in water quality,” he said.

The improvement is being supported by the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP), a joint venture between Apo Agua Infrastructura, Inc. (Apo Agua) and the Davao City Water District (DCWD), which delivers up to 300 million liters of treated surface water daily from the Tamugan River to the Davao City Water District (DCWD).

The project helps augment DCWD’s groundwater supply with surface water,  strengthening long-term water security for communities across the city.

“Water is the most basic necessity for humans,” Cabiles emphasized. “Without it, how can one function in all aspects of life?”

DCBWSP’s Multiplier Effect on Socio-Economic Development

Located along a major route connecting northern barangays in Davao City, Barangay Cabantian has increasingly become an attractive location for investment and development.

“The central point is Cabantian. Every time people pass through Cabantian from the northern barangays, they pass through here,” he explained. “It may be one reason why Cabantian is becoming attractive to investors.”

He added that the benefits of safe and stable water supply extend far beyond infrastructure.

“In terms of economic improvements, it’s a significant help, a big assistance to everyone, as it creates a domino effect. With investors coming in, it serves as proof that the area is promising, and then the people will have employment opportunities,” Cabiles said.

Cabiles’ observations reflect a broader trend across Davao City, which remains one of Mindanao’s leading economic centers.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, Davao City remains the largest contributor to the Davao Region’s economy. Local revenue collections totaled P15.5 billion in 2025, up 13% from P13.41 billion in 2024, reflecting sustained economic activity and business growth.

As Davao City continues to expand, infrastructure such as the DCBWSP plays an increasingly important role in ensuring that growth is supported by reliable and sustainable essential services.

For communities like Barangay Cabantian, the story is not just about economic indicators or infrastructure investments.

It is about families spending less on water. It is about improved quality of life. It is about communities attracting more investments and employment. And it is about giving Dabawenyos confidence in a better future.

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Better water access improves quality of life in Emily Homes, Cabantian

by Contributor
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For Emily Homes Homeowners Association President Jose D. Cadjatan, reliable water supply is vital for communities to grow and thrive in Davao City.

Improved access to potable water supply is a major contributor in building more livable communities in Davao City. More residents can now enjoy reliable and uninterrupted water service, advancing their quality of life, such as those living in Emily Homes in Cabantian.

This is made possible through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP), a public-private partnership between Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc. (Apo Agua) and the Davao City Water District (DCWD).

The DCBWSP increases water supply access by providing 300 million liters of potable water daily to more than one million Davaoeños. This has enabled the water district to expand its distribution network, bringing potable water to more households and communities.

Improved water access builds better lives

Better access to potable water makes it easier for residents to meet their everyday needs. This is evident at Emily Homes, where Homeowners Association President Engineer Jose D. Cadjatan underscores the importance of reliable basic services to the residents of their subdivision.

Before gaining access to piped water, residents from the Cabantian relied mostly on water deliveries by truck and often had to purchase water in gallons for drinking, to meet their daily needs.

“The most important daily requirements for a person are water, electricity and access to road infrastructure.” Engr. Cadjatan said. “The absence of one would be really hard,” he added.

“But, there’s no problem anymore. We have these [reliable water, electricity, and access to road infrastructure] here at Emily Homes, so the people are satisfied with their daily needs,” Cadjatan said.

Through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project, treated water from the Tamugan River is  delivered to DCWD for distribution. This reduces pressure on groundwater sources during peak demand, allowing it to naturally recharge. This ensures a stable and resilient water supply which benefits the customers of DCWD.

Cadjatan remarked that residents of Emily Homes are now satisfied with the improved water service. “Sa karon, ang feedback na gyud sa mga resident kay gwapo daw among source sa tubig. Tugnaw naman kaayo nya ang supply, enough na gyud siya. Wala na mi nakaproblema sa tubig– supisyente na sa among requirements (Now, residents are saying the water source is really good. The supply is cold, strong, and enough for our daily needs. We no longer have problems with water- it’s sufficient for our [daily] requirements).”

Supporting Davao City’s water needs during El Niño

The DOST-PAGASA recently reported that El Niño conditions are now present in the Philippines. With less rainfall and longer dry periods, some areas may experience water shortages and reduced water supply.

As part of DCWD’s conjunctive use strategy, Apo Agua provides treated surface water from the Tamugan river that complements existing groundwater sources — helping ensure supply reliability and redundancy.

This strategy also supports the sustainable management of the city’s water resources, providing DCWD with greater flexibility in managing the city’s water supply during periods of high demand and dry conditions.

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Business

Aboitiz InfraCapital highlights Davao bulk water supply project as a model PPP in Cebu Investment and Entrepreneurship Summit

by Contributor
written by Contributor

THE DAVAO City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP), a public-private partnership (PPP) between Aboitiz InfraCapital Water (AIC Water)’s subsidiary Apo Agua and the Davao City Water District (DCWD), was recently highlighted as a model for advancing water security during the Cebu Investment and Entrepreneurship Summit held on June 4 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Cebu City, as part of Cebu Business Month 2026.

In his plenary speech during the event, AIC Vice President and Head of Water Business, Eduardo ‘Dudes’ Aboitiz, said that the DCBWSP provides Davao City with 300 million liters per day (MLD) of safe and potable water through DCWD, benefiting more than one million Davaoeños. 

“Sari-sari store owners say they can now grow their businesses without relying on expensive water deliveries or spending time fetching water from communal sources,” Aboitiz said.

The Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project augments DCWD’s water supply, enabling the water district to expand its operations and coverage area. This led to an increase in the number of businesses and housing developments in Davao City, contributing to more economic opportunities for Davaoeños. 

In an independent study by the Ateneo de Davao University (ADDU), the DCBWSP contributed more than PHP 15.5 billion worth of investments in the city. It also generated PHP 1.1 billion gross revenue and contributions to Davao City’s gross regional domestic product in 2024.

The DCBWSP supports DCWD’s conjunctive use strategy, where surface water from Apo Agua complements existing groundwater sources to ensure supply reliability and redundancy. This is especially important during El Niño, which can bring long dry periods and lead to water shortages. 

Recognizing the role of public-private partnerships in advancing water security, Aboitiz referenced the DCBWSP in discussing how PPPs can support water resilience in Cebu.

“Building Cebu’s water security cannot be done overnight. It requires long-term planning and foresight. To achieve this, we should continue embracing PPPs as a framework to develop critical infrastructure and attract investment,” Aboitiz said.

Organized by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry as part of Cebu Business Month,  the Cebu Investment and Entrepreneurship Summit brought together investors, business leaders, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to discuss opportunities and solutions that advance Cebu’s economy. 

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Community

Why a dual water source system is strengthening Davao’s climate resilience

by Contributor
written by Contributor

Photo/Credit: 2024 infographics by Davao City Water District (DCWD) on the city’s water supply systems

Water security is increasingly becoming one of the defining challenges for cities across the world. Changing rainfall patterns, stronger weather disturbances, and growing urban demand are forcing governments and utilities to rethink how water systems are designed and managed.

The Philippines is fortunate to be endowed with abundant natural water resources– from Surface water sources to productive groundwater aquifers that sustain communities across the country. With significant annual rainfall that varies from 965 to 4,064 millimeters annually and diverse watersheds, water availability has long supported growing cities and economies.

However, ensuring long-term water security also depends on how these resources are managed together. Changing climate and increasing demand make it essential for cities to balance surface water and groundwater through integrated systems that protect supply even during dry periods.

The Davao City Water District has increasingly turned toward a balanced approach, combining surface water and groundwater sources, to strengthen resilience against these uncertainties.

“Sa pagkakaron, we can claim that Davao City has achieved tung atong ginatawag na climate resiliency in terms of water service kay atoang napamatud-an during that time of El Niño when every place in the country has been experiencing drought ug water shortage, ang Davao City, opposite ang atoang scenario, abunda kaayo ta og supply,” Duhaylungsod said in a 2024 interview during the Davao Peace and Security Press Corps presser.

(As of now, we can claim that Davao City has achieved what we call as climate resiliency in terms of water service, as demonstrated during the El Niño period when every place in the country was experiencing drought and water shortages. In contrast, Davao City’s scenario was the opposite; we had an abundant supply.)

Through the Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP), treated surface water sourced from the Tamugan River augments the existing groundwater supply managed by the Davao City Water District (DCWD), demonstrating how surface water integration is helping ease pressure on aquifers while maintaining stable supply for the city.

Learning From Changing Climate

A changing climate does not always announce itself through disasters. Sometimes it appears quietly through shifting river flows or unexpected dry periods.

Early Q1 this year, monitoring recorded lower river flow levels in parts of January despite it being within the rainy season– a reminder that even historically reliable water sources are not immune to changing climate conditions.

Yet across Davao, households and businesses experienced no noticeable disruption in supply.

DCWD was able to maintain stability by balancing surface water delivery with groundwater production, demonstrating how diversified sources can absorb environmental fluctuations without affecting consumers.

For residents, the adjustment happened largely behind the scenes. For the local water utility, however, it offered a practical example of how redundancy strengthens resilience.

Protecting Groundwater for the Long Term

Around the world, groundwater depletion has become an increasing concern. Aquifers that once seemed limitless are now under pressure due to population growth and expanding economic activity.

Supplementing groundwater extraction with treated surface water enables utilities to manage wells more responsibly, reducing strain during periods of peak demand and allowing natural recharge processes to take place.

Surface water provides additional supply when needed, while groundwater continues to serve as a stable foundation of the distribution system. Together, this balanced approach reduces dependence on a single source and strengthens overall water resilience.

This is the same strategy applied in Davao City through the treated surface water supplied by the DCBWSP.

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