Upper Wawa Dam: A Beacon of Hope for Water Security in Metro Manila

The Upper Wawa Dam, heralded as a flagship project by the national government, is poised to significantly bolster the water supply in Greater Metro Manila and surrounding areas. Spearheaded by Prime Infrastructure-led Wawa JVCo Inc., this monumental infrastructure, nearing completion at 93 percent as of February 28, 2024, stands as the largest water supply project undertaken in the last half-century.

Slated as Phase 2 of the Wawa Bulk Water Supply Project, the Upper Wawa Dam boasts a formidable capacity of at least 710 million liters per day (MLD). This vast resource is set to mitigate reliance on the aging Angat-Iba System, thus ensuring a more stable and reliable water supply. In light of the challenges posed by climate change, including the anticipated droughts associated with the El Niño phenomenon, the dam is a critical step forward in securing water availability for the region.

The significance of the Upper Wawa Dam extends beyond its immediate functional benefits. It embodies a strategic response to the pressing need for water security and resilience against environmental adversities. With the capacity to service over 700,000 households—approximately 3.5 million residents—within the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) coverage area, the project marks a pivotal advancement in safeguarding the water needs of the populous regions of Rizal and parts of Cavite.

Under a 30-year agreement, WawaJVCo will allocate 518 MLD from the dam’s total capacity to Manila Water, leaving a surplus of 192 MLD that could further alleviate water supply concerns. This arrangement underscores the project’s potential to significantly enhance the water infrastructure landscape of Greater Metro Manila, promising a more sustainable and secure water future for millions.

The construction and design of the Upper Wawa Dam adhere to the highest international standards, incorporating state-of-the-art technology to ensure its long-term efficacy and reliability. With the commencement of commercial operations projected for late 2025, the Upper Wawa Dam is set to become a cornerstone of water security, exemplifying the impactful collaboration between government and private sector initiatives in addressing critical infrastructure needs.