Manila: San Jose del Monte Metro Pacific Water (MPW), a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corp., has taken charge of the interim operation of San Jose del Monte City's water distribution system. This move comes as local authorities work to alleviate a severe water crisis impacting thousands of households struggling with inconsistent water supply.
According to Philippines News Agency, the city government announced that MPW would begin inspecting key facilities and initiating transition activities to restore reliable water service to the affected population. This development sidelines PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp., previously under scrutiny for ongoing service issues and under investigation by the national government due to consumer complaints.
MPW's appointment as the interim operator follows a two-month consultancy and operations agreement signed on May 20, after the local government assumed control of the water system on May 5. The company is tasked with stabilizing water distribution and conducting a comprehensive technical and operational audit, including pipelines and pumping stations.
This transition follows PrimeWater's legal setbacks, with regional trial courts in Bulacan and Las Pi±as denying its petitions to halt the city's intervention. The Bulacan RTC emphasized the public interest in resolving the water crisis over contractual disputes between PrimeWater and the San Jose del Monte Water District.
City data reveals that over 47,600 households, affecting approximately 250,000 residents in 62 barangays, have experienced inadequate water service. This figure surpasses PrimeWater's estimates presented in court. Mayor Florida Robes emphasized the change is not merely about a new operator but about restoring accountability and service quality to residents.
MPW plans to conduct technical assessments and propose both immediate and long-term solutions to improve water availability. The city aims to restore reliable water supply to all households within a year. MPW was chosen after a technical evaluation highlighted its extensive experience and capability for immediate and future system improvements.
The company has allocated PHP3.81 billion for water system enhancements in various service areas, including Dumaguete City and Iloilo City, this year.
