The Davao City Bulk Water Supply Project (DCBWSP) was highlighted as a model for enhancing water security during the Cebu Investment and Entrepreneurship Summit on June 4 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Cebu City. The event was part of Cebu Business Month 2026, organized by the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Project Overview
The DCBWSP is a public-private partnership (PPP) between Apo Agua, a subsidiary of Aboitiz InfraCapital Water (AIC Water), and the Davao City Water District (DCWD). It supplies 300 million liters of safe, potable water daily to Davao City, benefiting over one million residents.
Eduardo “Dudes” Aboitiz, vice president and head of water business at AIC, shared insights during his plenary speech. He noted that local entrepreneurs, such as sari-sari store owners, have experienced significant improvements. “They can now grow their businesses without relying on expensive water deliveries or spending time fetching water from communal sources,” Aboitiz said.
Economic Impact
The project has spurred business growth and housing developments in Davao City, creating more economic opportunities. An independent study by Ateneo de Davao University revealed that the DCBWSP generated over P15.5 billion in investments. In 2024 alone, the project contributed P1.1 billion in gross revenue and economic output.
Water Supply Reliability
The DCBWSP supports DCWD’s conjunctive use strategy by combining surface water from Apo Agua with existing groundwater sources. This approach improves supply reliability and provides backup during high-demand periods, especially critical during El Niño when prolonged dry conditions can lead to water shortages.
Call for PPPs in Cebu
Aboitiz emphasized the role of PPPs in addressing water challenges, citing the Davao project as an example. “Building Cebu’s water security cannot be done overnight. It requires long-term planning and foresight. To achieve this, we should continue embracing PPPs as a framework to develop critical infrastructure and attract investment,” he said.
The summit gathered investors, business leaders, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to discuss opportunities and solutions for driving Cebu’s economic growth.
