San Jose del Monte: Barangay leaders in San Jose del Monte City commended Mayor Arthur Robes, Rep. Florida "Rida" Robes, and the entire local government for their "relentless efforts" to address the water crisis. The local government unit's (LGU) action ultimately led to the San Jose Water District Board's decision to pre-terminate its joint venture agreement with PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Association of Barangay Chairmen (ABC) President Zosimo Lorenzo expressed gratitude, stating, "We are very thankful to Mayor Art, Cong Rida, and the entire city government for listening to the cries of our constituents. They never abandoned us." Lorenzo further added, "Because of their actions, the right of every San Jose±o to a reliable and sufficient water supply is slowly being restored."
In a letter dated April 10, 2025, the San Jose Water Board formally informed Mayor Robes of their passage of Resolution No. 15, Series of 2025, authorizing the issuance of a notice of intent to terminate their Joint Venture Agreement with PrimeWater. The matter has also been referred to the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel for the necessary legal proceedings.
Rep. Robes has not only pushed for local solutions but also pursued national reform through the filing of House Bill 1495, or the Domestic Water Supply Act, which seeks to set national standards for water service quality and pricing. Mayor Robes emphasized that although water districts are autonomous and not directly under LGU jurisdiction, the General Welfare Clause of the Local Government Code mandates that local leaders act to protect the health and welfare of their constituents.
For barangay officials and ordinary residents alike, the issuance of the pre-termination notice marks a "long-fought victory."