Bacolod: The Villar-owned PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp. is under heightened scrutiny due to concerns regarding its financial dealings in Bacolod City and subpar service delivery in Cadiz City, both located in Negros Occidental.

According to Philippines News Agency, Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya revealed that PrimeWater is still in the process of settling its outstanding debts with Bacolod Bulk Water Inc. (BBWI). Mayor Gasataya noted that BBWI informed him about PrimeWater Bacolod City’s failure to settle accounts for May and June, which could potentially lead to the shutdown of the Sum-ag Water Treatment Plant. He further mentioned that PrimeWater has already made the payment for May and is processing the payment for June, while the billing statement for July has just been issued.

BBWI supplies 40 percent of PrimeWater Bacolod City’s capacity through its Granada and Sum-ag treatment plants, covering eight major barangays. Last week, the Bacolod City Council urged PrimeWater to address complaints regarding ‘dark, smelly, and contaminated water’ impacting several households. They requested a comprehensive public report detailing the causes of these issues and the measures being taken to rectify them.

Water Watch Advocates convenor Wennie Sancho has called for an in-depth investigation into the non-payment issues between PrimeWater and BBWI. Sancho emphasized the need for a public hearing to ensure transparency in the joint venture agreement between PrimeWater and Baciwa.

In Cadiz City, PrimeWater executives faced the City Council to address a water supply shortage affecting approximately 14,000 consumers. Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. has instructed the Cadiz City Water District to demand a comprehensive resolution plan from PrimeWater. Mayor Escalante warned that the city might have to reclaim water management services if PrimeWater fails to adequately serve its consumers, stressing the fundamental necessity of water.