Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday vowed firm government action against those responsible for poor water delivery in the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, in his speech during his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the House of Representatives, President Marcos said he had personally reviewed the report from the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) detailing widespread complaints against several water districts and their private partners. He emphasized the steps LWUA is taking to address the issues, ensuring that water services are restored and prices are made more affordable for millions of Filipinos.

Malaca±ang earlier confirmed that the President approved the recommendation of LWUA amid the mounting complaints over water service interruptions involving the private water utility firm PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation. This comes after several local governments and consumers have raised issues over PrimeWater's service quality. PrimeWater operates under joint venture agreements with several local water districts and is part of the Villar family's business group.

LWUA earlier mentioned that the termination of joint venture agreements between PrimeWater and local water districts around the country is being considered by the government. President Marcos also reiterated his administration's long-term agenda to improve the country's water infrastructure, including large-scale bulk water supply projects and modern filtration systems, to provide clean drinking water, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

Amid the challenges of climate change and rapid urbanization, the President stated that ensuring access to clean and affordable water remains a top priority of the current administration.