Most people think it is no longer possible to drink directly from tap these days. They often resort to water filters and purifiers, or they boil the water before drinking just to make sure it is clean and safe for consumption. It might be unknown to many but the water supply in Metro Manila is actually safe and potable.

In a recent statement based on the Department of Health (DOH) water quality bulletin for April 2022, the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) has confirmed that the water being supplied to Metro Manila residents is compliant with the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW).

Based on the microbiological and physico-chemical examination done on water samples collected at the Water Treatment Works, Service Reservoirs, and strategically designated Regulatory Sampling Points in its distribution system, the water supplied by Manila Water is fully compliant with the PNSDW and is pronounced safe to drink.

“Customers are guaranteed their water supply is potable. However, to make sure that they can drink from tap safely, the reticulation after the meter must also be in good condition,” said Manila Water Head of Corporate Communications Dittie Galang.

This is the reason Manila Water is reminding its customers to regularly check their plumbing at home. “Water can be contaminated through leaks and damages that’s why it is important to maintain the condition and quality of the pipes,” Galang added.

Galang said this will not only spare them from having serious plumbing issues in the future but will also allow them to enjoy their tap water. “Add the fact that drinking from tap is a good way to save.”

Since tap water is readily available at home, people can cut down on their bottled water purchases and reduce expenses meant for water filters and purifiers. “More importantly, this will help people to stay hydrated at all times.”

Since it started operations in 1997, Manila Water has consistently passed the stringent PNSDW as set by the DOH. Manila Water Laboratory Services (MWLS) regularly conducts sampling and testing at 930 sampling points across the East Zone distribution line as well as at water treatment facilities. MWLS is a DOH-accredited testing laboratory.