19 November 2024
PRESS RELEASE
MARIKINA CITY LEADS IN SEWER COVERAGE EXPANSION IN METRO MANILA, EARNS TOP RECOGNITION FROM MWSS RO
Marikina City has earned top recognition from the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office (MWSS RO) for achieving the highest sewer coverage among the cities and municipalities in the National Capital Region, with an impressive 81% sewer coverage. Mayor Marcelino “Marcy” R. Teodoro received the prestigious 2024 “Gawad para sa Kaagapay sa Kalusugan at Kapaligiran” for Sewer Coverage Award from MWSS RO Chief Regulator Patrick Lester N. Ty during a ceremony held on 19 November 2024, in celebration of World Toilet Day.
Pasay City, with 48% sewer coverage, and Manila City, with 45%, were also recognized for their remarkable achievements in ensuring proper wastewater treatment and fostering environmental sustainability. Chief Regulator Ty personally presented the awards to Pasay City Mayor Imelda “Emi” Calixto-Rubiano and Manila City Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuna-Pangan on 18 November 2024.
The MWSS RO lauded the efforts of these Local Government Units (LGUs) for their proactive approach to wastewater management, a crucial aspect of safeguarding public health and protecting water resources. “Connecting households and establishments to sewer lines is a key activity for maintaining a sustainable and healthy environment, as it improves wastewater collection from both domestic and non-domestic sources,” said Chief Regulator Ty. “This, in turn, ensures proper wastewater treatment, prevents water pollution, and safeguards public health.”
Mandated to oversee and regulate water and sewerage services in Metro Manila, as well as parts of Rizal and Cavite, the MWSS RO is committed to protecting the interests of the consuming public and other stakeholders to a continuous and sustainable supply of potable water and environmentally sound sewerage system. As part of this endeavor,
the Office actively encourages stakeholders, especially the LGUs within the Concession Areas, to support the expansion and enhancement of sewer coverage within their jurisdictions.
Following a comprehensive evaluation of sewer coverage as of the end of 2023, Marikina, Pasay, and Manila emerged as the top-performing LGUs, having significantly exceeded their initial targets. Their exemplary performance demonstrates the transformative impact of prioritizing wastewater management and highlights the vital role of collaboration between LGUs, Water Concessionaires, and the MWSS RO.
The “Gawad para sa Kaagapay sa Kalusugan at Kapaligiran” for Sewer Coverage celebrates these achievements, serving as a call to action for other LGUs to follow suit. “These awards represent more than just figures; they reflect the commitment of LGUs to elevate public health standards and ensure a sustainable environment for future generations,” added Chief Regulator Ty.
As the MWSS RO continues to champion the expansion of sewerage services, it hopes that this year’s awardees will inspire a greater shift towards advocating for wastewater and sanitation programs that protect not only public health and welfare but also the environment.
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Pasay City Public Information Office