The Philippines has secured a ₱14.9-billion World Bank loan to expand and upgrade water and sanitation services in Bohol, Siargao and Jolo, funding new infrastructure designed to improve household water supply and facilities in public schools and health centers.
Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go signed the agreement on October 6, following World Bank Division Director Zafer Mustafaoğlu’s signature on September 23. It funds the first phase of the Philippines Accelerated Water and Sanitation Project in Selected Areas, approved on July 31, with the DPWH and DILG overseeing implementation.
In Bohol, a bulk water system drawing from the Loboc River will supply upgraded and expanded distribution networks, while schools, daycare centers and health facilities will receive water and sanitation improvements. Local officials have also begun preparatory work, including August procurement for right-of-way planning services.
Siargao’s investments include new and upgraded water supply infrastructure and equipment to collect and manage septic waste, supporting communities and the island’s tourism industry. In Sulu, the program will improve water systems in Jolo and parts of neighboring Indanan and Patikul, alongside sanitation facilities in public institutions.
The World Bank describes the program as the country’s first comprehensive project covering everything from developing water sources to managing sanitation. It also aims to strengthen local providers’ operations and finances to help sustain the upgraded systems.
“By strengthening institutions and mobilizing private participation, it will help deliver reliable, safe services,” Mustafaoğlu said when the World Bank approved the project in July.
The lender estimates the project could generate 8,700 jobs within five years of completion and around 46,500 over 25 years, as improved water services support local economic activity. The next milestones will be construction, connection upgrades and the delivery of functioning water and sanitation systems to the communities covered.
