On November 7, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed an investment agreement with Maynilad Water Services, Inc., a water utility provider in Metro Manila of the Republic of the Philippines.

The total amount of the investment is $145 million, of which $45 million will be provided through JICA-funded LEAP 2.

Leap 2 is an ADB-managed fund with commitment from JICA. It focuses on sustainable private sector infrastructure projects that reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and provide affordable healthcare, education, and communication services to ADB’s developing member countries.

Changing rainfall patterns, economic development, rapid urbanization, and population growth have contributed to intermittent water supply coverage by increasing water treatment capacity, reducing water losses and upgrading water conveyance networks, while improving sewerage and sanitation service coverage by installing new sewer lines, constructing lift and pump stations and interceptor systems, and upgrading facilities.

The project will contribute to SDG Goal 6 (Clean water and sanitation) and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the goals). JICA Philippines