Manila Water’s low nonrevenue water helps ensure 24/7 service during El Niño

In May 2026, Manila Water recorded an NRW level of 13.45%. Low NRW remains the East Zone’s silent ally, helping ensure that more water reaches customers, especially during the ongoing El Niño. —Photo from Manila Water

MANILA, Philippines — As the country continues to experience the effects of a severe El Niño, Manila Water’s low nonrevenue water (NRW) level has quietly played a key role in sustaining uninterrupted 24/7 water service for its 7.9 million customers across the East Zone.

Together with the company’s diversified portfolio of water sources, low NRW has helped strengthen water availability and system reliability despite the challenges posed by prolonged dry conditions.

In May 2026, Manila Water recorded an NRW level of 13.45%, bringing its year-to-date average for the first five months of 2026 to 14.36%. This remains among the lowest NRW levels in Asia and is comparable to the performance of water utilities in many developed countries.

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