Manila: An original proponent status (OPS) has been granted to the consortium of Maynilad Water Services, Inc. and South Korea's Korea Water Resources Corp. (K-Water) for a PHP14.8 billion project in New Clark City.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) announced that its Board granted the OPS to the consortium on August 28. The project is a long-term water supply and wastewater management initiative as part of the 'smart city project in Central Luzon.'
The BCDA highlighted that the project aims to provide reliable utility services and ensure that wastewater is treated in line with environmental and wastewater treatment standards. This endeavor supports responsible water resource management as the metropolis grows.
The project will undergo an approval process and a Swiss challenge as part of the public-private partnership (PPP) process, with the awarding scheduled for December. BCDA President and CEO Joshua Bingcang emphasized the importance of infrastructure in supporting growth, noting that water and wastewater systems are fundamental to the city's development.
An integrated water and wastewater system in New Clark City is expected to attract more businesses, including utility services and advanced manufacturing firms. Bingcang further stated that establishing these systems is crucial for long-term investment, community growth, and resource management in the city.