Manila Water Company Inc. said Thursday it will expand its Project i-Float, an innovative solution to trap solid waste in waterways, in more flood-prone areas such as Pasig, Taguig and Navotas, after being deployed in Marikina City.
Project i-Float received international recognitions for its practical approach to urban flood mitigation. Presented at the 41st International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research (IAHR) World Congress and the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) Spotlight 2025, the project showcases how simple engineering solutions can deliver meaningful impact for communities.
The project was presented by Riza Oiga, operations department head for wastewater facilities, and developed in collaboration with Christian Quintos and Marvin Jambre. It has received full support from Manila Water for its innovative approach and potential to strengthen flood resilience across Metro Manila.
Project i-Float uses floating bar screens to trap solid waste in waterways like Balante Creek in Marikina City.
These screens prevent blockages, allowing water to flow freely and reducing the risk of flooding. Since its launch, the project has helped protect over 180,000 residents from seasonal floods and improved the performance of the Marikina North Sewage Treatment Plant by enhancing water flow and treatment efficiency, according to the company.
During its pilot phase, the screens collected around 24 cubic meters of waste monthly, contributing to fewer flood incidents between August and November 2024.
Manila Water said the project aligns with the goals of Angat Buhay, a non-government organization focused on community empowerment and disaster resilience.
Under its Women Champions in the Water Sector Program, Angat Buhay supported the presentation of Project i-Float at the IAHR World Congress, recognizing it as a model of grassroots innovation and collaborative problem-solving.
“Project i-Float proves that innovation doesn’t always mean complexity. With the right partnerships and practical tools, we can build safer, more resilient communities,” Oiga said.
Manila Water said that with support from the Manila Water Foundation and local government units, the next phase will feature modular designs and cost-effective materials tailored to different urban environments across the Philippines.
