Senator Raffy Tulfo blasted PrimeWater for continued poor service despite repeated complaints from consumers and issues raised in a previous Senate hearing.
At a public services committee hearing, Tulfo said complaints have only increased since September, with some areas seeing legal disputes and even JVA terminations, yet water problems persist.
He said his office surveyed local water districts with JVAs, revealing that of PrimeWater’s 75 JVAs, 61 of 70 respondents were dissatisfied, and most want to cut ties.
However, only 21 of 52 water districts in pre-termination or termination stages have the capability to fully take over operations.
Tulfo said many want out but lack funds, manpower, or clarity on legal processes. He noted that PrimeWater has failed to deliver on its promises despite earning billions, noting its loans ballooned from P270 million in 2014 to nearly P24 billion in 2024.
“Ang tanong: Saan napunta ang bilyon-bilyong loan na ito?” he asked.
Tulfo said his committee is coordinating with the OGCC, water districts, and agencies to explore short-term fixes, including district takeovers, claiming performance bonds, mutual termination of JVAs, catch-up plans, and alternative providers.
He urged PrimeWater to agree to mutual terminations and release valid performance bonds. “If you want this problem to go away, maybe it’s time to walk away,” the senator said, vowing to continue hearings as complaints keep pouring in.IMT
