61 Local Water Districts Express Dismay Over PrimeWater Joint Ventures Amid Nationwide Utility Concerns

Sixty-one out of seventy local water districts nationwide have formally expressed dissatisfaction with their joint venture agreements involving PrimeWater, signaling a growing crisis in public water utility management. Multiple districts are advancing toward termination or pre-termination of contracts amid widespread consumer complaints of substandard service, unauthorized tariff increases, and failed financial obligations.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. reaffirmed his administration's commitment to his "Maasahan at Masipag" governance framework prioritizing consumer protection, transparent regulation, and reliable public utilities.

Reports reveal that numerous households have experienced water service reductions to as low as less than five hours daily, with some affected areas subjected to unauthorized tariff hikes conflicting with agreed terms. Further, several districts identified failed claims on bonds linked to the joint ventures, exacerbating financial instability.

In response, the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) and National Water Resources Board (NWRB) have initiated comprehensive investigations into these irregularities. These probes aim to evaluate the validity of tariff adjustments and assess claims related to financial instruments used in these partnerships.

LWUA spokesperson stated, "We are conducting a thorough audit to ensure that water consumers are not subjected to unjust charges and that any improper increases are rectified promptly. Refunds to consumers will be considered where violations are confirmed."

Aligned with the ongoing investigations, President Marcos Jr. has directed strengthened oversight mechanisms to monitor and regulate private-public water utility agreements more effectively, ensuring accountability and transparency.

Highlighting this approach, Presidential Communications Secretary remarked, "Under PBBM's leadership, our governance is anchored on "Reliable Oversight. Tireless Reform." Every Filipino deserves a dependable water service, and we are unwavering in our promise to be the Reliable Protector of Public Utilities and Consumers."

Several local water districts have already initiated formal proceedings towards terminating their contracts with PrimeWater, citing breach of agreements and failure to deliver promised levels of service.

Consumer groups have welcomed these moves, emphasizing the urgency for reforms to restore public trust in essential utilities.

As the administration pursues rigorous enforcement of regulations and corrective actions, the collective demand for improved water services is setting a precedent for future governance of public utilities in the Philippines.