Philippines Water Giant Plants 186K Trees, Beats Goal

Maynilad Water Services just gave Metro Manila's water supply a living shield by planting 185,995 trees across 451 hectares of vital watershed land in 2025. The campaign exceeded the company's annual goal by 3%, protecting water sources for millions of residents in the Greater Manila Area.

The trees now grow in the Ipo and La Mesa watersheds, which feed fresh water to one of Southeast Asia's largest urban populations. These green barriers will prevent soil erosion, reduce sedimentation, and naturally filter water before it reaches treatment facilities.

But Maynilad knows planting is just the beginning. The company actively maintained 1,295 hectares of previously reforested land throughout 2025, ensuring young trees survive and thrive.

That dedication shows results. Government assessments found a 91% survival rate across earlier planting sites, a remarkable figure that highlights the importance of long-term care over quick photo opportunities.

"Planting is only the first step," said Atty. Roel Espiritu, Maynilad's chief sustainability officer. "What matters is sustained site protection so the trees can mature and strengthen the watershed."

Since launching its Plant for Life program, Maynilad has planted over 1.64 million trees across nearly 2,420 hectares of watershed land. Each sapling represents a small investment in cleaner water and healthier ecosystems for future generations.

The Ripple Effect

The impact extends beyond environmental benefits. In 2025, Maynilad partnered with two local organizations, the Mt. Balagbag Farmers Association and the Briquettor Association of the Philippines, creating green jobs and strengthening community ties to watershed protection.

Volunteers from private companies and media groups joined planting efforts, spreading awareness about watershed health throughout Manila's business community. When people plant trees with their own hands, they develop a personal stake in protecting those forests.

The program also demonstrates how infrastructure companies can invest in natural solutions. Instead of relying solely on expensive filtration technology, Maynilad is building a living water treatment system that improves with age.

As the Philippines' largest private water concessionaire serving the West Zone of Greater Manila, Maynilad's commitment to watershed protection could inspire similar programs across the archipelago's 7,600 islands. Clean water starts with healthy forests, and these 186,000 new trees are proof that business and nature can grow together.