The World Bank Group has approved a USD268.6-million, or about P15.6-billion, water and sanitation project for the Philippines that is expected to create up to 46,500 jobs over the next 25 years while improving climate resilience in three island provinces.
The Philippines Accelerated Water and Sanitation Project in Selected Areas (AWSPSA) will finance climate-resilient water supply systems, sanitation facilities, water storage and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure in Bohol, Siargao and Jolo, areas facing persistent water shortages and heightened climate risks.
The investment is expected to generate about 8,700 jobs within five years after project completion, with employment rising to roughly 46,500 over 25 years as better water services support tourism, business activity and broader local economic growth.
Beyond job creation, the project aims to expand reliable access to safe water and sanitation for households, schools, healthcare facilities, daycare centers and tourism establishments, helping communities better withstand floods, droughts and other climate-related disruptions.
“This project tackles the core drivers of water insecurity and service gaps, climate vulnerability, operational inefficiencies, and financing constraints, while prioritizing the needs and voices of women, youth, and vulnerable communities,” said Zafer Mustafaoğlu, World Bank Division Director for the Philippines, Malaysia and Brunei.
The initiative marks the country’s first integrated water and sanitation program covering the entire service chain, from developing water sources and distribution systems to wastewater management and sanitation services.
The project also seeks to strengthen local water service providers, improve governance, promote better WASH practices and encourage private sector participation, reflecting a growing emphasis on long-term infrastructure sustainability rather than stand-alone construction projects.
The Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of the Interior and Local Government will implement the project, with the World Bank providing USD250.87 million of the total financing.
The approval comes as the Philippines ramps up investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, recognizing that reliable water access is becoming increasingly critical not only for public health but also for tourism, agriculture and long-term economic competitiveness.
