2018 Reports

Operationalizing Urban Climate Resilience in Water and Sanitation
Systems in Manila

Doczi, Julian; Mulingbayan, Mark

This case study examines how Manila Water Company operationalized climate resilience in the east zone of Metro Manila’s water and sanitation system following the privatization of services in 1997. Through investments in infrastructure, climate-resilient facilities, disaster preparedness, and multistakeholder partnerships, the company improved service coverage, reduced non-revenue water, and enhanced customer resilience, particularly for poorer communities reliant on standpipes. Key drivers of success included favorable initial conditions, a proactive corporate culture, performance-based management, and strong public trust, though challenges remain in navigating regulatory constraints and political pressures. The Manila Water experience demonstrates how private-sector engagement, when well-managed, can accelerate progress toward resilient urban water and sanitation services in high-risk, densely populated cities.