Public Outcry Grows Against Water Service Providers; House Calls for Probe

Public Outcry Grows Against Water Service Providers; House Calls for Probe

By Wilma N. Yamzon – TheNationweek.com 

June 18, 2025

MANILA, Philippines – Public discontent has swept through communities as scrutiny intensifies on water service providers amid complaints about poor services and disruptive construction activities in some cities.

The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) is finalizing its report on PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp. after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ordered a probe into the water firm.

LWUA President Jose Moises Salonga confirmed that the report is under presidential review, with details set to be revealed upon approval.

PrimeWater, a company owned by tycoon Manny Villar and his family, has been swarmed by criticism over frequent service interruptions, escalating costs, and insufficient water supply in various cities.

It has, however, committed to enhancing efforts to address the water supply problem, particularly in underserved regions.

Salonga stressed that his agency is formulating immediate and long-term strategies to resolve the PrimeWater issue and review the company’s proposed “catch-up plan.”

He, however, acknowledged that there have been improvements in water services in some areas.

PrimeWater has pledged to enhance efforts in addressing its consumers’ needs.

Meanwhile, House Assistant Majority Leader Jay Khonghun of Zambales First District has vowed to file a resolution for a congressional investigation into PrimeWater’s operations once the legislative session reconvenes this month.

Khonghun cited persistent complaints and reports of delays in water service, unreliable supply, slow water restoration, outages, and substandard water quality, especially in Subic, Zambales, Laguna, Cavite, and some parts of Metro Manila.

In another development, Maynilad is under fire due to its construction projects and unfinished works at many sites in cities, which have worsened traffic congestion on major thoroughfares.

Marcos had earlier reiterated that his administration would not condone inadequate basic services, saying that the water problem must be immediately addressed.

LWUA is now working to solve inadequate water supply in Bulacan schools after restoring services at Santisima Trinidad and Barihan Elementary Schools in Malolos.

Repairs are also underway at Tibagan Elementary School in San Miguel, also in Bulacan, it said.