Maynilad water is 100% safe despite massive flooding

Sunday 19th of August 2012

QUEZON CITY, August 19 (PIA) -- After the recent massive flooding in most parts of Metro Manila caused by the southwest monsoon, the Maynilad Water Services, Inc. maintained its 100 percent satisfactory compliance with the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW) of the Department of Health (DOH).

“We have in place a Water Safety Plan which details the risk assessment and contingency procedures in case of water quality impairment. This—and our maintenance of world-class facilities—have helped us ensure the safety of the water we deliver to our customers even during the floods brought by the monsoon rains,” said Maynilad President and CEO Ricky P. Vargas in a statement.

According to Maynilad, the company has consistently received 100 percent satisfactory compliance rating from the Metro Manila Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee (MMDWQMC) since 2010.

The MMDWQMC conducts monthly water sampling in over 800 points in Maynilad’s concession area. The samples undergo strict bacteriological, physical and chemical examination to ensure that the water is safe for drinking and cooking.

Likewise, Maynilad carries the distinction of being the first water company in the Philippines to produce a Water Safety Plan (WSP). Described by the World Health Organization (WHO) as one of the most comprehensive WSPs in the world, it is now used as a model and reference material by other water companies in the Philippines.

Its water distribution network and its La Mesa Treatment Plants 1 and 2 obtained triple ISO certifications, proving that the facilities' systems and procedures meet strict international standards for quality, environment, and occupational safety and health.

The MMDWQMC is composed of representatives from the Department of Health (DOH)-Center for Health Development - Metro Manila, DOH-National Center for Health Facility Development, Manila Health Department - Public Health Laboratory, Marikina Clean Food Laboratory, Makati Health Department, Pasay City Health Department, Parañaque City Health Department, Quezon City Health Department, Las Piñas City Health Department, Environmental Management Bureau, MWSS Regulatory Office, Maynilad Water Services, Inc. and Manila Water Company Inc.

The committee is tasked to monitor the quality of water being served by the two concessionaires. (MAYNILAD/RJB/JEG-PIA-NCR)