President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed an investigation into PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp., the water utility owned by the Villar family, amid mounting complaints from residents and officials in Bulacan and other province’s over poor service and steep charges.
“The President will order an investigation,” Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro said during a Palace briefing on Wednesday, April 30.
“The lack of service has no place in the Marcos administration,” she added.
PrimeWater, operated by the family of Senator Cynthia Villar and House Deputy Speaker Camille Villar, manages several joint ventures with water districts across the country. In Bulacan, local officials and residents accuse the company of delivering substandard water supply while imposing high fees.
Castro stressed that access to clean and adequate water is a basic right, not just a business.
Pressed on whether the issue would affect Camille Villar’s senatorial bid, Castro said credibility hinges on performance. PrimeWater has yet to respond.