The Philippines is one of the most rapidly urbanizing countries in Asia. By 2015, it is estimated that about 90 million Filipinos - almost triple the present population - will be living in towns and cities. Urban growth is occurring mostly in lower-density, peri-urban towns with less than 100,000 people. The concentration of people brings potential for economies of scale in the provision of services, but may require more complicated service delivery systems and management. One of these services is water supply. Service for formal water supply has not kept up with the increase in demand. Recent access levels have slipped. The rate of access in 2002 (80 percent) is actually lower than 1999 levels. In the 12-year period between 1990 and 2002, the average annual increase in water access was less than one percent.
