Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC), the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, is moving forward to ensure long-term water security in Iloilo, after being awarded original proponent status (OPS) for the proposed Iloilo Bulk Water Supply Public-Private Partnership (PPP) project.
The awarding of OPS, formalized on May 15, 2025 at Iloilo City Hall, is a critical step in what could become a transformative infrastructure venture. AIC president and CEO Cosette Canilao hailed the milestone as a sign of trust and collaboration, saying the project aims to build a “future-ready water system” that can serve Iloilo’s growing population and economy.
Mayor Jerry Treñas emphasized the urgency of developing water infrastructure to support Iloilo’s rapid economic growth, noting that even with existing desalination efforts, more water sources are essential. Iloilo City posted a 10.5 percent GDP growth in 2023, the fastest in Western Visayas.
Once completed, the bulk water supply project is expected to deliver 86 million liters per day of treated water, improving quality, reliability, and supply for consumers and businesses alike. AIC’s plan includes modern treatment facilities and a distribution network to address critical gaps in Iloilo’s current water system.
The OPS gives AIC a lead position in the PPP bidding process, subject to a Swiss Challenge that will allow other proposals. AIC’s experience with the award-winning Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project positions it as a credible partner in developing sustainable, resilient water infrastructure for Iloilo.
