By David Vera
A PhP500-million water transmission line project, set for completion in February 2025, is expected to alleviate water scarcity in Tacloban City and nearby towns, officials announced on Tuesday.
The project, known as the Filter C Transmission Line Project, is a joint venture between the Leyte Metropolitan Water District (LMWD) and Primewater Infrastructure Corp. It aims to provide an additional 10 million liters per day (MLD) of water, addressing the city’s current 4.2 MLD deficit and improving the overall water supply.
“Of the 10 MLD, three MLD will be allocated to resettlement sites in northern Tacloban, while seven MLD will cater to the city’s downtown area,” said LMWD General Manager Ronnie Cornico during a press briefing. The increased water pressure in Tacloban is also expected to benefit nearby towns, including Sta. Fe.
The project involves the installation of 450-mm and 300-mm plastic pipes across 21.8 km and 5.25 km, respectively, stretching from Tigbao village in Tacloban City to the Slow Sand Filter Facility Plant in Pastrana, Leyte, near the Binahaan River water source.
Roy Urmeneta, technical head of Primewater Leyte Metro, highlighted the broader impact of the project. “This initiative will not only enhance water supply in Tacloban but also improve distribution networks in villages along the pipeline route, extending service to communities in Sta. Fe town,” he said.
The Filter C facility, the first water treatment plant of LMWD, utilizes slow sand filtration and disinfection to ensure safe drinking water. The project will complement existing facilities and add another water treatment plant to the system.
LMWD currently serves over 53,000 water concessionaires in Tacloban City and the towns of Dagami, Tolosa, Tanauan, Palo, Tabon-Tabon, Sta. Fe, and Pastrana. With approximately 60 MLD of potable water delivered daily, most of the supply comes from sources in Dagami and Pastrana.
The project underscores the commitment of LMWD and Primewater to ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply for Tacloban City and neighboring municipalities.