Manila Water held the ceremonial commissioning of the Novaliches-Balara Aqueduct 4 (NBAQ4) in Quezon City.
The new aqueduct, which will convey up to 1,000 million liters of water per day (MLD), will pave the way for the inspection, assessment, and subsequent rehabilitation of three other existing aqueducts, which have been operating since 1929, 1956, and 1968, respectively, to help ensure continuous water supply for more than 7 million customers in the East Zone.
The NBAQ4, one of Manila Water’s flagship projects, is part of the water concessionaire’s improvement and expansion initiatives in the East Zone, in coordination with the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS).
Guest of honor during the event was Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan. Also in attendance were MWSS Board of Trustees Chairman Justice Elpidio Vega, MWSS Administrator Engr. Leonor “Bobby” Cleofas, MWSS Chief Regulator Atty. Patrick Ty, Mr. Emil Caling representing Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Deputy Chairman Undersecretary Frisco San Juan, Quezon City 5th District Councilor Joseph Visaya representing Mayor Joy Belmonte, and representatives from other national and local government offices.
“I know I have to participate in this occasion to emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving clean, reliable supply of water consistent with priorities under the ‘Build, Better, More’ infrastructure development thrust of the Administration of President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos… Today is really a reason to celebrate as the Novaliches-Balara Aqueduct 4 or the NBAQ4 will be the lifeline of over 7 million customers in [Metro Manila] East Zone,” guest of honor Secretary Bonoan said during his keynote speech.
Councilor Visaya of the 5th District of Quezon City delivered Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte’s message. Visaya highlighted the conscious effort of Manila Water not to disrupt the daily activities in the city despite the sheer magnitude of the project.
“The construction of the NBAQ4 did not cause any inconvenience to our residents, our commuters, and businesses. This innovation is a testament to their commitment to provide reliable and efficient services to our constituencies,” Visaya said.