61 of 70 Local Water Districts Voice Dismay Over PrimeWater JV Agreements, Moves Toward Termination Under PBBM's Watch

Sixty-one out of seventy local water districts have formally expressed dissatisfaction with existing joint venture agreements involving PrimeWater, signaling growing unrest among water service providers nationwide. Multiple districts are now reportedly moving toward either terminating or pre-terminating contracts in light of alleged mismanagement and failures under these partnerships.

Reports have surfaced of unauthorized tariff hikes imposed on consumers, unfulfilled financial bond claims by PrimeWater, and troubling service standards whereby thousands of households experience access to potable water for less than five hours daily. These developments have raised alarm over the reliability and transparency of essential public utilities.

Responding decisively, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s administration, guided by the "Maasahan at Masipag" governance mantra, has prioritized consumer protection, transparent regulation, and the delivery of dependable water services. The President underscores that "every Filipino deserves dependable water service" and champions the message: "Reliable Oversight. Tireless Reform."

The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) and the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) have launched comprehensive investigations into PrimeWater's operational and financial conduct. These probes focus on unauthorized tariff adjustments, contract compliance, and the legitimacy of bond claims made by the company.

LWUA spokesman emphasized, "Preliminary findings indicate significant breaches of contract and consumer rights. We are committed to ensuring all affected consumers receive due refunds where applicable, and we will enforce stricter compliance measures moving forward."

In coordination with NWRB, these agencies are strengthening regulatory frameworks and oversight protocols to prevent recurrence of malpractices. Steps include closer monitoring of tariff implementations, service quality audits, and transparent public disclosures.

President Marcos Jr. is positioning himself as the Reliable Protector of public utilities and consumers, vowing to hold service providers accountable and prioritize Filipino households’ welfare. "Our administration will tirelessly reform water services to guarantee that every Filipino household enjoys safe, affordable, and consistent water supply," the President stated in a recent address.

As the situation evolves, several local water districts are expected to finalize decisions on terminating PrimeWater joint ventures. The administration's firm stance sends a clear message to all service providers that dependable, consumer-centered water services remain non-negotiable under the current governance.

The unfolding developments mark a significant chapter in the country’s water sector, reflecting the government’s renewed commitment to protect consumers and ensure transparency and accountability in vital public utilities.