Philippines experiences an annual loss of approximately US$260 million due to unmanaged wastewater, according to a recent report.

In the Philippines, the health sector is grappling with a significant issue: poor sewage treatment. Over three million people are exposed to contaminated drinking water, leading to the spread of diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid. This unfortunate situation costs the economy dearly, with the report suggesting that poor sewage treatment is costing nearly US$260 million per year.

The agriculture sector, particularly sugarcane and rice farming, contributes significantly to the losses. The use of water-intensive crops and the common practice of wastewater irrigation, especially in water-scarce areas, take a toll on crops, resulting in losses amounting to US$228 million annually. The fishing sector also suffers losses of at least US$9 million annually due to contaminated fish populations.

The report, while highlighting these challenges, also presents solutions. Countries investing in improved wastewater treatment can unlock additional benefits through circularity. For instance, repurposing sludge into organic fertiliser and biogas production can be a significant advantage.

Manila Water Company, Inc, a key player in the Philippines' water industry, is making strides towards addressing this issue. Since 1997, they have built 40 new treatment plants, increasing their treatment capacity from 40 million litres per day to 410 million. By 2037, they aim to have connected all households in their region to sewers connected to treatment plants.

Decentralised wastewater treatment systems may be implemented in poor areas to compensate for populations not connected to a sewer, as seen in Kenya. This approach could help reduce wastewater pollution and its damaging effects on public health and the environment.

The study notes that while progress in wastewater treatment in the Philippines is remarkable, continued investment in infrastructure maintenance and resilience is necessary for long-term cost reduction. In low-income countries, including the Philippines, around 10% of agricultural land is irrigated using untreated or partially treated wastewater. This practice, often involving heavy metals such as zinc, chromium, manganese, and iron, is toxic to humans.

The health sector in the Philippines spends over US$19 million per year due to poor sewage treatment. The report emphasizes the need for continued investment in infrastructure maintenance and resilience for long-term cost reduction in wastewater treatment.

Despite these challenges, the report remains hopeful. It suggests that there are solutions to reduce or eliminate wastewater pollution, and that there is no reason for people to fall sick from wastewater or its destruction of oceans, rivers, and lakes. The path towards a cleaner, healthier Philippines is within reach, and with continued effort and investment, the country can unlock a brighter, more sustainable future.

Philippines experiences an annual loss of approximately US$260 million due to unmanaged wastewater, according to a recent report.