Philippines
Tap water situation
In the Philippines, tap water safety varies significantly across the nation but is generally not considered safe to drink without proper treatment. In urban areas, especially in Metro Manila, tap water is treated and distributed by companies such as Maynilad and Manila Water, but contamination can still occur due to pipe leakages and illegal connections. Therefore, most residents opt for boiled or bottled water to avoid any health risks. In rural and less developed areas, access to clean and safe tap water can be more challenging. The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) under the Department of Public Works and Highways is the government body responsible for the regulation and quality of water services, though the local implementation can be inconsistent, leading to disparities in water quality. Bottled or filtered water is recommended for drinking, especially for visitors.