Water security, infrastructure development, and modernization of water services will take center stage as government officials, water utility operators, financial institutions, and industry leaders gather for the Western Visayas Water Utilities Summit 2026 on October 19 at the Iloilo Convention Center (ICON).
Carrying the theme “Growing Western Visayas Toward a Water-Secure Future,” the summit aims to identify practical solutions to challenges affecting water supply and distribution across the region, including aging infrastructure, water losses, limited financing, and the increasing demand for reliable water services.
The event will serve as the official pre-conference to the 32nd Philippine Water Works Association (PWWA) International Conference & Exhibition.
Iloilo’s water security plan in focus
One of the highlights of the summit will be the presentation of the Iloilo Water Security Plan by Iloilo Governor Arthur R. Defensor Jr., outlining the provincial government’s direction in strengthening long-term water security.
The discussion comes as communities and businesses increasingly depend on sustainable water sources, efficient distribution systems, and infrastructure capable of supporting economic growth and population needs.
The summit will also examine how stronger partnerships between government agencies, water utilities, private companies, and financial institutions can help address existing gaps in water infrastructure and service delivery.
Addressing water losses, financing, and modernization
Industry leaders will tackle some of the most pressing operational and financial challenges facing water service providers in Western Visayas.
Among the key topics are reducing non-revenue water, or water that is produced but does not generate income due to leaks, unauthorized consumption, or billing issues; improving distribution networks; and securing financing for infrastructure upgrades.
Discussions will also explore bulk water supply partnerships, lessons from Iloilo’s water service improvements, and the adoption of modern billing, collection, and digital payment systems.
Representatives from the Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD), Institute of Contemporary Economics (ICE), Flo Water Resources (Iloilo), Inc., Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW), Land Bank of the Philippines (LANDBANK), Mochi Solutions, and Electronic Commerce Payments Inc. (ECPay) are expected to share insights and industry solutions.
The participation of financial and technology institutions is expected to provide water utilities with perspectives on funding opportunities and digital innovations that could improve operational efficiency and customer service.
Strengthening regional collaboration
Beyond technical discussions, the summit seeks to encourage collaboration among public and private stakeholders toward building a more resilient and sustainable water sector in Western Visayas.
The event is presented through the collaboration of the Philippine Water Works Association, Provincial Government of Iloilo, Iloilo Economic Development Foundation, Inc. (ILEDF), and Better Bosses for Better Business, together with industry partners.
Free registration open to water sector stakeholders
The Western Visayas Water Utilities Summit 2026 will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Iloilo Convention Center in Iloilo City. Registration begins at 11:00 AM.
Participation is free and open to local water districts, private water service providers, real estate groups operating water utilities, government representatives, and other stakeholders in the water sector.
Seats are limited, and interested participants are encouraged to register in advance through https://luma.com/y45pkuam.
The summit aims to help advance a shared vision of a water-secure Western Visayas, where reliable water services support community well-being, economic development, and long-term regional growth.
