Bacolod city: A staunch consumer welfare advocate here has lauded the statement of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on the government's firm action against those responsible for the poor delivery of water service, including in this highly urbanized city. According to Philippines News Agency, Water Watch Advocates convenor Wennie Sancho expressed his support for the President's acknowledgment of the dismal state of water services in the Philippines, considering it a crucial step towards addressing long-standing issues in the water sector. In his State of the Nation Address on Monday, President Marcos mentioned that he had personally reviewed a report from the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA). The report highlighted pervasive complaints against several water districts and their private partners, leading him to commit to taking action against those responsible for the subpar water service. The Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa) had entered into a joint venture agreement with PrimeWater five years ago, allowing the Villar Group's water utility firm to take over its operations. This partnership came with an investment pledge of PHP1.6 billion to improve the city's water supply system. However, consumers in several villages continue to experience poor service and low water quality. In May, the Water Watch Advocates sent a petition to the President, urging the revocation of the joint venture agreement due to the resulting substandard water quality, including turbid water, which affects the health and well-being of consumers. Sancho also filed a complaint with the LWUA on June 16, which the agency received on June 19. On July 14, the City Council's committee on energy and public utilities, chaired by Councilor Roberto Roxas, conducted a public hearing based on Sancho's letter of complaint and position paper. The hearing aimed to address the grievances against PrimeWater Bacolod City. Sancho noted that the public hearing was productive, with a thorough discussion of the issues and concerns, and they are n ow awaiting the release of the committee report.