The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is encouraging its beneficiaries to apply for the Expanded Enhanced Lifeline Program (Expanded ELP) of West Zone concessionaire, Maynilad Water Services, Inc. (Maynilad), to avail of discounted water rates and help ease their monthly expenses.

The Expanded ELP is a social protection initiative of Maynilad that provides higher water bill discounts to low-income households, including 4Ps beneficiaries, in its concession area covering the West Zone of Metro Manila and Cavite.

“The program aims to make water services more affordable and accessible, particularly for families facing economic challenges, including our program beneficiaries under 4Ps,” 4Ps National Program Manager Director Gemma Gabuya said on Wednesday (April 1).

Under the Expanded ELP, qualified 4Ps beneficiaries may receive up to a 52.30 percent discount on the Basic Charge in their water bills for consumption of up to 10 cubic meters, and up to 46.25 percent discount for consumption between 11 to 20 cubic meters, based on rates effective as of January 1, 2026, and may be subject to adjustment in accordance with approved tariff charges.

To avail of the discount, the 4Ps beneficiaries are urged to apply by filling out the application form and submitting the necessary documents, including their latest water bill and 4Ps identification, at the nearest Maynilad office or the Maynilad Barangay Helpdesk, if available.

Last February 16, the DSWD and Maynilad signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and a Data Sharing Agreement (DSA) to strengthen the implementation of the program.

“The agreement aims to streamline beneficiary identification, improve targeting mechanisms, and ensure efficient delivery of services,” Dir. Gabuya said.

Through the partnership, the DSWD provides updated and validated lists of 4Ps beneficiaries, conducts information campaigns, and coordinates with local government units (LGUs) and stakeholders.

Maynilad, on the other hand, implements the program, conducts data matching, and submits regular reports to the DSWD.

“The collaboration also ensures secure and responsible sharing of beneficiary data to support accurate validation and enrollment in the program,” the 4Ps National Program Manager said.

Dir. Gabuya emphasized that the initiative is part of the 4Ps’ broader efforts to expand social protection services and reduce the financial burden of basic utilities among poor households.

Eligible 4Ps beneficiaries are encouraged to visit the nearest Maynilad office to apply and take advantage of the program.

Discounts will take effect in the next billing period following approval of their application (NMHT)