Overview
Mapúa University is committed to promoting responsible water stewardship through sustainable water management practices, wastewater treatment systems, pollution prevention measures, water conservation initiatives, water reuse programs, and the provision of safe drinking water to the University community. Through investments in water-efficient infrastructure, wastewater management facilities, rainwater harvesting systems, and community-based water initiatives, the University supports the efficient use, treatment, protection, and conservation of water resources in support of SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation.
Water Usage and Care
Wastewater Pollution Prevention and Water Protection Measures
Campus Grease Trap Systems
Mapúa University maintains grease trap systems near food service areas at its Intramuros and Makati campuses to prevent oils, grease, and food-related contaminants from entering drainage and wastewater systems. These systems serve as a frontline pollution prevention measure by capturing grease and solid waste before wastewater is discharged into the sewer system.
Separate Potable and Non-Potable Water Distribution System
The Makati Campus operates a dual-pipe water distribution system that separates potable water from treated non-potable water, preventing cross-contamination and supporting safe water management practices. The system works alongside the campus wastewater treatment facility and ensures that recovered water is safely distributed for approved non-potable applications.
Wastewater Management and Discharge Compliance
Mapúa University manages wastewater in compliance with Republic Act No. 9275 (Philippine Clean Water Act) and other applicable national regulations governing wastewater discharge and environmental protection.
Intramuros Campus Wastewater Management System
The Intramuros Campus is connected to the centralized wastewater treatment network operated by Maynilad Water Services, Inc. through the Tondo Sewage Pumping Plant. Wastewater generated on campus is conveyed through the University’s sewer service connection for preliminary treatment before being transported through Maynilad’s treatment and disposal infrastructure.
The University has been issued a Certificate of Interconnection by Maynilad and a Certificate of Discharge Permit Exemption pursuant to Section 4(d) of Republic Act No. 4850. These certifications confirm that campus wastewater is interconnected with a centralized wastewater treatment facility and is managed in accordance with national wastewater management regulations.
The University also complies with mandatory sewerage connection requirements under:
- Section 305.1 of the Revised Plumbing Code of the Philippines
- Section 74(a) of the Sanitation Code of the Philippines
- Section 8 of Republic Act No. 9275 (Clean Water Act)
Makati Campus Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) Sewage Treatment Plant
Mapúa University operates an on-site Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) Sewage Treatment Plant at the Makati Campus with a treatment capacity of approximately 150 cubic meters per day.
The facility treats wastewater to remove contaminants and produce high-quality effluent suitable for approved non-potable applications. The treatment system forms part of the University’s broader wastewater management strategy and supports compliance with wastewater discharge regulations and environmental standards.
Free Drinking Water Provision
Accessible Drinking Water for Students, Employees, and Visitors
Mapúa University maintains a policy of providing free drinking water to students, employees, and campus visitors.
Water dispensers are strategically distributed throughout University facilities to ensure convenient access to potable drinking water.
At the Intramuros Campus, the University operates a dedicated water refilling station for the Mapúan community. At the Makati Campus, potable drinking water is supplied through an accredited drinking water provider. Water purification systems undergo regular maintenance and water quality monitoring to ensure safe consumption.
These facilities provide accessible potable water to more than 20,000 students and approximately 800 employees while encouraging the use of reusable containers and reducing dependence on single-use bottled water.
Water-Conscious Building Standards and Water Conservation Program
Mapúa University has implemented a comprehensive Water Conservation Program since 2010 as part of its commitment to responsible water stewardship and sustainable campus operations. Through the leadership of the Campus Development and Maintenance Office (CDMO), the University seeks to achieve a 7% annual reduction in water consumption and maintain an average water use of 20 liters per person per day for students, faculty, and staff.
Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures
Mapúa University replaced older high-consumption plumbing fixtures with low-flow water closets and urinals. Water closets were upgraded from approximately 3.5 gallons per flush to 1.3-1.6 gallons per flush, while urinals were upgraded from 1.5 gallons per flush to 0.5 gallons per flush, significantly reducing water consumption.
Sensor-Operated Faucets
The University installed sensor-operated faucets in the Makati Campus and progressively replaced conventional faucets in the Intramuros Campus. These touchless systems reduce unnecessary water use by automatically stopping water flow when fixtures are not in use.
Building-Level Water Monitoring Systems
Mapúa University installed water sub-meters in campus buildings to monitor water consumption, identify inefficiencies, detect hidden leaks, and support prompt maintenance interventions. Water use data are reviewed regularly to ensure operational efficiency.
Faucet Aerators
The University installed aerators on water taps and faucets to reduce water flow rates while maintaining functionality, contributing to lower overall water consumption.
Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
Mapúa University incorporates drought-tolerant plant species within campus landscaping projects to reduce irrigation demand and improve outdoor water-use efficiency.
Comprehensive Drainage System
The University maintains a comprehensive drainage plan covering groundwater, domestic wastewater, and roof drainage systems to support effective water management and environmental protection.
Rainwater Harvesting System
As part of its water conservation strategy, Mapúa University operates a Rainwater Harvesting System at the YIC Building to capture, store, and reuse rainwater for non-potable applications.
The system includes a 1,000-liter collection tank that gathers rainwater from rooftop surfaces through a gutter and piping network. Before storage, collected rainwater passes through a screening mechanism that prevents leaves and debris from entering the collection system.
Stored rainwater is used for landscape irrigation and plant watering, reducing the need to utilize potable water for non-drinking purposes. This initiative supports sustainable water resource management and complements the University’s broader conservation efforts.
Water Reuse
Policy on Water Reuse
Mapúa University maintains a Water Re-Use Policy (effective 29 September 2021) that guides institutional efforts to maximize water reuse across campus operations. The policy supports the utilization of treated and recovered water for non-potable applications and reinforces the University’s commitment to sustainable water management.
Mineral Water Backwash Collection and Reuse System
As part of its water reuse initiatives, Mapúa University operates a Mineral Water Backwash Collection System at the Ground Floor of the Northwest Building.
Backwashing is a maintenance procedure used to remove sediments, debris, and contaminants from filtration systems before normal water treatment operations begin. Rather than discharging the wastewater produced during this process, the University collects recovered water in a 1-cubic-meter recycling tank.
The recovered water is reused for:
- Landscape irrigation
- Watering of campus plants and gardens
- Other approved non-potable applications
This system supports the University’s circular water management approach and reduces dependence on potable water resources.
Non-Potable Water Reuse System
The Makati Campus incorporates a two-pipe water distribution system that separates potable and non-potable water supplies.
Treated wastewater from the Sewage Treatment Plant is reused for:
- Toilet flushing
- Urinal flushing
- Cleaning activities
- Other approved non-potable purposes
All faucets, shower heads, and bidets remain connected exclusively to the potable water network, ensuring safe water use and preventing cross-contamination.
Rainwater and Recovered Water for Irrigation
Mapúa University also collects rainwater and water recovered from filtration-system backwashing for irrigation and landscape maintenance. These initiatives reduce potable water consumption while maximizing the beneficial use of recovered water resources.
Water in the Community
Educational Opportunities for Local Communities on Water Management
Community Conference 2024: Active Involvement in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
On 06 December 2024, the Office for Social Orientation and Community Involvement Programs (SOCIP) conducted its 17th Community Conference at One Tagaytay Place Hotel Suite, Tagaytay City.
The conference brought together 71 community representatives, including barangay chairpersons and council members, to review community engagement initiatives and plan future projects aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
As part of the planning workshop, participants collectively committed to advancing projects aligned with SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, and SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. The conference facilitated knowledge sharing, stakeholder engagement, and collaborative project development related to sustainable water management and sanitation.
Through this initiative, Mapúa University provided a free educational and capacity-building opportunity for local communities to learn about water management, sanitation, and sustainable development practices.
Community Conference 2025: Strengthening Community Commitment to Clean Water and Sanitation
Mapúa University’s 18th Community Conference brought together community representatives and stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and advance initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
The conference highlighted the importance of clean water and sanitation through a collective pledge supporting integrated water resources management and sustainable community development efforts. By promoting partnerships and collaborative solutions, the initiative contributed to improved awareness of water stewardship and access to essential water services in partner communities.
Cooperation with Government on Water Security
Distribution of Water Filtration Systems to Pandacan Barangays
On 01 July 2025, Mapúa University, through the Office for Social Orientation and Community Involvement Programs (SOCIP), collaborated with local government units and barangay officials to improve community access to safe drinking water.
The University delivered seven water filtration systems to Barangay 840, Pandacan, Manila, for installation and distribution across six selected barangays. The initiative was coordinated with local authorities to strengthen access to potable water and support community water security efforts.
This collaboration demonstrates active cooperation between the University and local government stakeholders in advancing sustainable water access and public health objectives.
Promotion of Water Conservation and Responsible Water Use
University Water Conservation Program
Mapúa University actively promotes water conservation awareness through a campus-wide Water Conservation Program administered by the Campus Development and Maintenance Office (CDMO).
The program targets:
- A 7% annual reduction in water consumption
- An average water use of 20 liters per person per day
Initiatives include:
- Water conservation posters and awareness campaigns
- Monitoring of water consumption
- Prompt leak detection and repair activities
- Reduced irrigation demand
- Promotion of water-saving fixtures and technologies
Water Consumption Monitoring and Conservation Performance
The University continuously monitors campus water consumption to support conservation efforts and measure performance.
Institutional monitoring records documented approximately:
- 35,204 cubic meters of water consumption in 2024
- 34,482 cubic meters of water consumption in 2025
These monitoring activities support data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement in water management practices.
Promotion of Water Conservation Beyond Campus
Mapúa University extends water conservation awareness beyond campus through community engagement initiatives, educational activities, and sustainability programs that promote responsible water stewardship, sustainable water resource management, clean water access, and sanitation awareness within partner communities.
Water Management Policies and Institutional Framework
Policy on Water Conservation
Mapúa University institutionalizes sustainable water management through the following policies:
- Water Conservation Guidelines (effective 01 July 2021)
- Water Re-Use Policy (effective 29 September 2021)
- Water Management and Care Guidelines (effective 01 February 2023)
These policies establish the University’s framework for water conservation, water reuse, water efficiency, pollution prevention, and responsible water management.
The policies support:
- 20 liters maximum water consumption per person per day
- 7% annual reduction in water consumption
- Rainwater harvesting systems
- Water reuse and wastewater recycling
- Water-efficient building standards
- Monitoring and maintenance of water systems
- Environmental awareness and education programs
- Water quality protection and wastewater management
The policies apply to students, faculty, staff, tenants, contractors, and visitors and guide institutional efforts to ensure the sustainable use of water resources across University operations.