Report Philippines Mulls Probe into PrimeWater Over Service Failures

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Picture courtesy of PhilStar

 

The Philippines is gearing up for a legislative inquiry into PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp., a prominent private water firm criticised for its frequent service interruptions and low water pressure. House Resolution 22, introduced by Representative Jefferson Khonghun of Zambales, urges the 20th Congress to investigate the company's joint venture agreements with local water districts.

 

The resolution seeks to empower affected communities to influence a regulatory framework enhancing transparency, accountability, and consumer protection in the country's water services. Khonghun highlighted the essence of water as a fundamental right, insisting, "Water is not merely a commodity; it is life itself."

 

PrimeWater has been inundated with consumer grievances from various districts it serves. Specifically, in Subic, Zambales, frustrations have brewed over the firm's uneven service, characterised by frequent, prolonged outages impacting several barangays. Reports describe ongoing inefficiencies, such as delayed repairs and unmet infrastructure promises.

 

Civil society groups have joined the chorus of criticism, pointing to issues of transparency and corporate responsibility. PrimeWater is accused of sidelining customer complaints and prioritising profits over public welfare.

 

Khonghun noted the significant public distrust in public-private water partnerships when private interests override essential services, a sentiment echoed in the resolution. Subic’s local council has expressed dissatisfaction with PrimeWater's performance since its 2018 contract with the Subic Water District, leading to a notice of pre-termination due to contract breaches and poor service.

 

For the inquiry to proceed, the House must approve the resolution in a plenary session. With over 40 lawmakers ready to support the measure, Khonghun is optimistic about the probe's prospects. If sanctioned, designated committees will carry out the investigation.

 

PrimeWater, which serves over half a million households across regions such as Bulacan, Batangas, and Laguna, has responded to the scrutiny with a statement affirming its readiness to cooperate with regulators. As the Local Water Utilities Administration investigates under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive, the company expressed willingness to embrace recommendations for operational improvements.

 

In the context of Thailand, these events unfold as water services continue to be a pressing issue, with significant lessons for Southeast Asian countries grappling with similar public-private water sector challenges. The scrutiny of PrimeWater could illuminate the path towards fair and efficient water distribution systems across the region.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-07-03

 

 

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