In a significant boost to Metro Manila’s sanitation infrastructure, Manila Water and the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) officially inaugurated the state-of-the-art Aglipay Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) in Mandaluyong City on Thursday. The facility, designed to dramatically improve water quality in local waterways, was unveiled with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. serving as guest of honor.
The new plant is a cornerstone of the Mandaluyong West–San Juan South–Quezon City South Sewerage System. With an initial treatment capacity of 60 million liters per day (MLD), expandable to 120 MLD, it will intercept and treat domestic wastewater from a 2,115-hectare catchment area covering portions of Mandaluyong, San Juan, and Quezon City. An estimated 652,000 residents are set to benefit from the project.
“This project is not just about pipes and concrete—it’s about people,” said Manila Water President and CEO Roberto R. Locsin during the ceremony. He emphasized the project’s goal of fostering “cleaner waterways, healthier communities, and a better quality of life.”
President Marcos, in his keynote address, highlighted the crucial role of public-private partnerships. “We recognize the role of Manila Water and Megawide Consortium as our partners in delivering this critical infrastructure,” he stated, noting their expertise is essential for meeting environmental standards and ensuring reliable public service.
MWSS Administrator Maria Leonor Cleofas commended the long-term partnership with Manila Water, calling the plant “a shining example of what we can achieve when the public and private sectors work together” to deliver world-class sanitation and advance national progress.
Advanced Technology for Environmental Compliance
The Aglipay STP employs advanced Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR) technology, chosen for its high efficiency even with fluctuating wastewater flows. The treatment process includes biological treatment, dissolved air flotation, ultraviolet disinfection, and odor control systems. This ensures that all effluent discharged into the Pasig River complies with the stringent DAO 2021-19 standards set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Wastewater will be collected through a 53-kilometer combined sewer-drainage network serving key areas, including the Wack-Wack Golf and Country Club, La Salle Greenhills, Greenhills Shopping Center, Camp Aguinaldo, and Camp Crame.
Project Background and Investment
Awarded to the Megawide Consortium in December 2019, the project represents a P3.93-billion investment. It forms a critical part of the broader Manila Water and MWSS initiative to expand sewerage coverage in the East Zone of Metro Manila. The facility began its commissioning phase in August 2025 and is now fully operational.
The inauguration was also attended by Mandaluyong Mayor Camelita “Menchie” Abalos, Mandaluyong Lone District Rep. Alexandria “Queenie” Pahati-Gonzales, MWSS Chairman Elpidio Vega, and former DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos.#
