The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) and the Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) exploring the commercial use of water from the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project Stage II (JRMP II) for domestic supply.
The MOU, signed by NIA administrator Eduardo Guillen and MIWD general manager Alfredo Tayo III, outlines a proposed transfer of up to 1 cubic meter per second (86 million liters daily) of NIA’s water rights to MIWD. The initiative remains subject to regulatory clearance from the National Water Resources Board (NWRB).
Under the agreement, MIWD will spearhead a comprehensive feasibility study covering technical, financial, legal, and environmental aspects. A joint one-year evaluation by both agencies will follow, aimed at formalizing a long-term water-sharing arrangement.
The MOU includes provisions for infrastructure development, such as a high-line canal segment to be constructed and initially operated by MIWD. Ownership of the canal section will eventually revert to NIA. MIWD will also develop intake and treatment facilities to distribute potable water across Iloilo City and nearby municipalities.
“This agreement lays the groundwork to responsibly utilize part of the Jalaur River’s water resources for safe, reliable, and accessible drinking water,” said Tayo.
The deal supports the national agenda on water security and hints at future integration of JRMP II’s capacity to serve both agricultural and domestic demands. The JRMP II is the first major water reservoir project outside Luzon, with components for irrigation, bulk water supply, hydropower, and solar energy.
NIA confirmed that the Asian Development Bank has been tapped for transaction advisory services, including project structuring and pricing strategies, with a focus on affordability for MIWD consumers.
