Israel-backed water technology powers major Negros Island water facility

• President Marcos Jr. leads the inspection and inauguration of the Sum-Ag Water Treatment Plant, benefiting local communities with reliable water supply. (Photo courtesy: Presidential Communications Office)

A major leap in climate-resilient infrastructure took shape in the Negros Island Region as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the inspection and inauguration of the Sum-Ag Water Treatment Plant on January 19, a project expected to significantly expand access to safe and reliable water in the Negros Island Region.

During his visit to the newly inaugurated facility, President Marcos emphasized the critical role of a stable and safe water supply in safeguarding public health and supporting sustained economic development.

“It is an initiative that represents sound infrastructure planning and responsible investment in our country’s future,” Marcos said.

“As we all know, water is a precious resource that sustains our health and our life and enables economic activities. When water systems work, progress flows,” the President added.

Considered one of the largest water facilities in the region, the plant can produce up to 75 million liters of potable water per day, supplying an estimated 100,000 households or around 500,000 residents in Bacolod City and the Municipality of Murcia. 

The scale of the project positions it as a critical response to growing water demand and climate-related supply challenges.

“This facility supplies treated bulk water to Bacolod City through the City Water District to ensure a more reliable water supply for the city,” Marcos said.

The Embassy of Israel welcomed the milestone, underscoring the role of international cooperation and advanced technology in delivering long-term water security. 

Israeli innovation is represented through Watermatic International, whose systems reflect Israel’s global reputation for developing efficient solutions in water-scarce environments. 

The project also brings together a broader coalition of partners, including the European Union, the Government of the Netherlands, and Climate Fund Managers, highlighting a multi-stakeholder approach to sustainable infrastructure.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Israeli Ambassador Dana Kursh during the inauguration of the Sum-Ag Water Treatment Plant in the Negros Island Region—strengthening partnerships for clean, safe, and sustainable water for communities.

Israel Ambassador to the Philippines Dana Kursh, who joined the inauguration, pointed to the project as a reflection of trust, technology, and knowledge transfer between partner countries. 

She noted that despite more than 60 percent of Israel’s land being desert, the country has overcome water scarcity through innovations such as drip irrigation and advanced water technologies.

“This project reflects vision, technology, trust, and the transfer of know-how. Despite having more than 60 percent of its land classified as desert, Israel learned to overcome water scarcity through innovation, including drip irrigation and advanced water technologies,” Ambassador Kursh said “We are proud to share Israel’s experience and practical solutions to support water and food security for Filipinos. Water is life — ang tubig ay buhay.”

The Sum-Ag Water Treatment Plant stands as a model of how innovation and partnership can deliver climate-resilient infrastructure and long-term benefits for communities.

The Embassy of Israel looks forward to continuing its close cooperation with the Philippine government and partners in advancing sustainable development, technology transfer, and inclusive growth.