MANILA, Philippines — In observance of Fire Prevention Month this March, Manila Water has announced the completion of a comprehensive readiness check for its network of more than 3,300 fire hydrants across the East Zone concession area.
As of late 2025, Manila Water manages 3,300 operable hydrants designed to support the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) during emergencies.
- Innovative Solutions: The network includes specialized purple hydrants. Unlike standard hydrants, these draw from treated wastewater rather than potable water.
- Water Conservation: Using non-potable water for firefighting helps ensure that the supply of clean drinking water for households remains uninterrupted even during major fire incidents.
Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director Jeric Sevilla emphasized that hydrant readiness is a year-round priority, but inspections are intensified ahead of the dry season when fire risks typically increase.
- Accessibility: The company works closely with local government units (LGUs) and the BFP to ensure hydrants are visible, unobstructed, and easy for firefighters to access in dense urban neighborhoods.
- System Efficiency: High hydrant pressure is maintained by keeping Non-Revenue Water (NRW)—water lost to leaks or illegal connections—at record low levels, ensuring there is enough “push” for fire hoses when every second counts.
Reliable hydrants are considered essential public safety assets, particularly in low-income and high-density communities where fires can spread rapidly. Manila Water’s maintenance program includes regular “tagging,” functional testing, and visibility checks to guarantee that the equipment is in good working order 24/7.