The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office (MWSS RO) confirmed the implementation of the Foreign Currency Differential Adjustment (FCDA) for the fourth quarter of 2025, effective October 1. The adjustment, approved by the MWSS Board of Trustees on September 4, will result in higher water bills for Maynilad customers and lower charges for Manila Water customers.
For the October–December period, Maynilad will apply an FCDA of -0.36% of its 2025 average basic charge of Php51.40 per cubic meter, equivalent to -Php0.19 per cubic meter. This reflects an upward adjustment of Php0.14 from the previous quarter’s FCDA of -Php0.33. On the other hand, Manila Water will implement an FCDA of 0.80% of its Php47.10 basic charge, or Php0.38 per cubic meter, marking a Php0.15 reduction from its current Php0.53.
The FCDA is a quarterly tariff mechanism that allows concessionaires to recover losses or return gains from foreign exchange fluctuations affecting foreign currency-denominated loans used for water and wastewater projects.
To cushion the impact on vulnerable sectors, the MWSS RO urged eligible households to apply for the Enhanced Lifeline Program (ELP). Introduced in January 2025, the program exempts qualified low-income, low-consuming households—particularly 4Ps beneficiaries using up to 20 cubic meters per month—from FCDA charges and provides reduced water rates.
The MWSS RO said it remains committed to protecting consumers and ensuring that water and wastewater services remain affordable, equitable, and accessible.