The Philippine government has taken steps to secure long-term access to essential services by approving the 10-year extension of water concession agreements with Maynilad Water Services, Inc. and Manila Water Company, Inc. during the inaugural meeting of the Economy and Development (ED) Council.

The Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) announced that the ED Council, led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., also gave the green light to vital infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and rural development.

The council approved the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System's (MWSS) request to extend the contracts of the two firms from 2037 to 2047, aligning them with legislative franchises under Republic Act 11600 and 11601.

DEPDev Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, who serves as the Vice Chair of the ED Council, emphasized that this decision will ensure safe, reliable, and affordable water for Metro Manila and nearby areas, while also attracting more capital investments that are expected to generate around PHP50.3 billion in government revenues.

According to Balisacan, ensuring water security is crucial for economic growth and improving the quality of life for the growing population. By aligning the concession agreements with legislative franchises, the government aims to promote policy coherence and long-term investment planning in the water sector to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable water services to millions of Filipinos.

Infrastructure Development

The ED Council also approved two Official Development Assistance (ODA)-funded projects focused on enhancing rural access and economic mobility.

• The PHP27.7-billion Farm-to-Market Bridges Development Program of the Department of Agriculture (DA) aims to construct 300 modular steel bridges in 52 provinces across 15 regions to improve transport for farmers and fisherfolk.
• The PHP5.1-billion Liloan Bridge Construction Project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will build a four-lane, 721-meter bridge connecting Panaon Island to mainland Leyte, replacing the existing deteriorated structure.

These projects are expected to address infrastructure gaps, improve market access, reduce post-harvest losses, and enhance rural productivity, ultimately leading to increased rural incomes and improved food logistics, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

Balisacan noted that the ED Council's inaugural meeting has paved the way for a more integrated and responsive approach to development planning and investment programming. By focusing on strengthening water resources, agricultural productivity, and infrastructure connectivity, the government aims to unlock greater economic opportunities and foster inclusive growth in communities across the country.