Two Philippine water utilities under Manila Water, Clark Water and Laguna Water, have been internationally recognized as 2025 Climate Smart Utilities by the International Water Association (IWA). The award, announced at the IWA Water and Development Congress & Exhibition held here from December 8-12, honors their exemplary leadership in adapting to climate change, mitigating environmental impact, and engaging communities.
Laguna Water received an outstanding distinction for its technological innovations, presenting its achievements at the conference’s Utility Leaders Forum. The IWA programme globally recognizes water and sanitation providers for their efforts to lead the fight against climate change.
Laguna Water serves over 930,000 residents in 12 Laguna cities and municipalities. Its recognition is anchored on a demonstrated 18% reduction in carbon emissions in 2024 compared to business-as-usual levels. Key initiatives include:
- Employing advanced wastewater treatment technologies (Moving Bed Bioreactor, Food Chain Reactor) to protect water bodies.
- Harnessing solar energy, generating 295,372 kW of clean power over two years.
- Reducing Non-Revenue Water (NRW) from 48% (2009) to 24% (2024) through system upgrades and replacing 143 km of pipes.
- Exceeding its water supply buffer target, achieving a 23.8% buffer by end-2024.
- Community programs like the TSEK ng Bayan sanitation campaign, benefiting over 18,000 households.
Clark Water, serving the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga, was cited for embedding resilience into its operations amidst climate stressors like erratic rainfall and aquifer depletion. Its accomplishments feature:
- Maintaining a remarkably low Non-Revenue Water (NRW) rate below 10% for over a decade, achieving 5-6% in 2025.
- Ensuring 100% sewer coverage within the Freeport, collecting and treating all wastewater to protect ecosystems.
- Installing Refrigerated Drinking Fountains, eliminating an estimated 1,840 single-use plastic bottles daily.
- Fostering climate awareness through its Katubig Caravan educational program.
“Being recognized as a Climate Smart Utility by IWA affirms our commitment to sustainability and climate resilience,” said Constantine Uy, General Manager of Laguna Water.
“Clark Water’s journey is a testament that broader possibilities can happen in the water industry once we embrace climate smart transformation,” added Lyn Zamora, General Manager of Clark Water.
This dual recognition underscores Manila Water’s group-wide commitment to climate action. The parent company, Manila Water, was the first utility in the Philippines and Southeast Asia to receive the same IWA Climate Smart Utility recognition in 2022, the award’s inaugural year.
The International Water Association’s Climate Smart Utilities Programme celebrates water and sanitation utilities worldwide that demonstrate leadership in climate adaptation, mitigation, and community engagement, paving the way for a water-wise, resilient future.#
