The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) has completed its investigation into the alleged poor service delivery of PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp. and is preparing to submit its findings to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
LWUA Administrator Antonio Salonga confirmed on Friday that the Palace had requested the report, which is “voluminous” and based on verified accounts from affected residents, joint venture contracts, and unsolicited proposals from PrimeWater.
The probe found contract violations on PrimeWater’s part, particularly in its underinvestment and failure to adequately deliver water supply under joint ventures with local water districts. Of the 73 districts in partnership with the company, 20 to 30 have expressed a desire to cancel their agreements.
In May, the Palace had said any contract cancellations would hinge on LWUA’s investigation. Salonga expressed confidence that the president would approve their recommendations, emphasizing that the agency’s goal is not finger-pointing but resolving the water shortage.
While the agency cannot yet directly assist affected communities due to legal constraints, unless an emergency is declared, Salonga said this issue is addressed in the recommendations.
PrimeWater earlier stated it is fully cooperating with LWUA and committed to addressing service concerns.
LWUA’s lack of funding for regional systems had pushed water districts to seek private investment.
Salonga assured the public that solutions are forthcoming, apologizing for the delay and reiterating LWUA’s commitment: “We’re not sleeping on this—we won’t rest until the issue is resolved.” (RRN)
