TeamSolve, a Singapore-based water technology company, has launched Balibot, an artificial intelligence (AI) co-pilot for water utilities, following successful field implementation with Balibago Waterworks, one of the Philippines’ largest private water operators.
Co-developed by both companies and built on TeamSolve’s Knowledge Twin platform, Balibot assists with asset management and preventive maintenance. Early trials have shown improvements in leak detection and survey efficiency, supporting efforts to reduce water losses and strengthen system reliability.
The launch took place during the 31st Philippine Water Works Association International Conference and Exhibition in Davao City, which gathered utilities, suppliers, and innovators to discuss sustainable and digital approaches to water management.
Measurable operational gains
Field deployments have demonstrated that Balibot can accelerate leak detection and repair processes, enabling surveys to be completed up to twice as fast while providing full documentation. The tool automatically calculates leak volumes, allowing utilities to track and manage water losses more accurately. Early results suggest these improvements translate into measurable operational efficiencies and reduced costs.
Balibot also supports workflow management, helping utilities optimise scheduling, work orders, and maintenance routines. Asset performance is projected to improve by more than 20 per cent as downtime decreases and maintenance culture strengthens.
After an initial rollout covering five municipalities and two water treatment plants, Balibago Waterworks plans to extend Balibot’s use to over 300 employees across more than 80 independent water systems in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
“As the Philippines seeks to improve access to safe and reliable water, our expansion highlights how AI can bridge skill gaps, strengthen workforce readiness, and enable utilities to overcome traditional digitalisation barriers,” said Robin Wong, chief commercial officer at TeamSolve. “With affordable subscription models, local language interfaces, and rapid onboarding, Balibot offers a practical digital companion for plumbers, operators, and engineers.”
A localised and accessible platform
The name Balibot combines “Bali” from Balibago and “bot” from AI assistant, drawing inspiration from Batibot, a Filipino children’s television programme known for promoting learning in local languages. Reflecting this spirit, Balibot supports Tagalog and can be adapted into regional dialects such as Kapampangan, Ilocano, Cebuano, and Ilonggo.
The mobile application operates offline, automatically syncing data when connectivity is restored. This feature allows deployment in remote or rural areas and enables scaling across utilities with varying levels of digital readiness.
“Balibot represents a new era for the Philippine water sector, one where technology works hand in hand with people,” said Criselle P. Alejandro, president of Balibago Waterworks. “Our plumbers and pump operators provide one of society’s most vital services — clean water and sanitation. Balibot helps them do this better by guiding field work, improving operations data collection, and making knowledge accessible anytime, anywhere.”
Built on TeamSolve’s Knowledge Twin framework
Balibot operates on TeamSolve’s Knowledge Twin framework, which captures operational data, provides contextual guidance for technicians, and connects teams through integrated systems.
The framework functions through three core components: capturing field knowledge via digital forms, photos, and voice notes; coaching staff with contextual prompts, safety reminders, and troubleshooting advice; and connecting field teams with command centres through secure data flows. Integration with systems such as SCADA, CMMS, and GIS supports scalable digital transformation for utilities.
Expanding presence and partnerships
TeamSolve is expanding its partnerships in the Philippines to accelerate adoption of AI-driven water management solutions. The company recently signed a distribution and implementation agreement with Chemical Research Inc, a local provider of water treatment products and technical services. It has also been engaged by Earth Lab Inc to integrate AI capabilities into infrastructure projects.
Beyond the Philippines, TeamSolve is collaborating with the Asian Development Bank, headquartered in Manila, to explore a pilot programme in the Pacific Islands aimed at improving resilience and efficiency in small and remote water systems.
