NEDA Board approves P15.3B budget for Kaliwa Dam

The NEDA Board, chaired by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has approved cost adjustments for the Kaliwa Dam project, increasing the total budget from P12.25 billion to P15.3 billion.

During its final meeting before transitioning to the Economy and Development Council on April 23, the board greenlit Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System's request to extend the loan validity period and modify the project scope.

As of December 2024, about 24.8% of the dam's physical construction has been completed, with the project expected to provide an additional 600 million liters of raw water per day for the National Capital Region and nearby provinces by 2027.

Opposition groups argue that the dam will harm the environment, affecting 291 hectares of watershed and endangering wildlife.

Despite opposition, the government maintains that the Kaliwa Dam is necessary to meet Metro Manila's growing water demands as the Angat Dam faces limitations during droughts and dry spells.

The project has faced delays due to permit issues and environmental concerns raised by indigenous peoples and environmental groups who have called for its cancellation.