Manila: A nationwide Senate survey has unveiled a significant pattern of dissatisfaction among local water districts concerning their agreements with PrimeWater. The survey indicates that most districts are either initiating or preparing to initiate the termination of their joint venture agreements (JVAs) due to unmet commitments, poor service quality, and stalled infrastructure projects.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a public hearing of the Senate Committee on Public Services, chaired by Senator Raffy Tulfo, it was disclosed that survey forms were sent to all local water districts operating under PrimeWater's 75 JVAs. Out of the 70 water districts that responded, 61 expressed dissatisfaction with PrimeWater's service performance, and 52 have begun or are preparing to begin the pre-termination or termination process.
Senator Tulfo remarked that the survey responses highlight a common experience across communities nationwide: issues such as intermittent water supply, brown or unsafe water, delays in promised capital expenditure projects, and unresolved operational violations. While many districts are eager to exit the partnership, only 21 have the technical and financial capability to independently manage operations, revealing a gap that can trap districts in ineffective arrangements.
The survey further reflects widespread frustration over missed investment targets, unimplemented projects, and the deterioration of water district assets. Red flags identified include unpaid contractors, shrinking physical assets despite increasing loans, and performance bonds that districts cannot enforce. Senator Tulfo emphasized that the most troubling finding is that many districts wanting to leave the JVAs are hindered by the complex and costly exit process, which involves protracted negotiations and expensive arbitration proceedings held exclusively in Metro Manila.
Of the 52 districts wishing to withdraw, most lack the capacity to do so, a disconnect that places millions of consumers at risk of continued poor service. Senator Tulfo urged PrimeWater to consider mutual termination agreements with districts capable of reassuming water operations and called on regulators to intervene to prevent further service degradation. He suggested that PrimeWater should consider walking away to resolve the ongoing issues.
The Senate Committee on Public Services plans to continue its hearings until water districts and consumers receive the promised service and quality water they deserve.
