Consumers and former employees of local water districts in Pampanga, including the cities of Mabalacat, Angeles, and San Fernando, have expressed frustration over the deteriorating water services under the joint venture agreements (JVA) of Primewater Infrastructure Corp.. Since Primewater took over operations, complaints about poor service, mismanagement, and unfulfilled commitments have mounted.
According to former water district employees who requested anonymity, the company has failed to meet its obligations, leading to significant operational setbacks. One insider revealed that delayed supplier payments have resulted in a shortage of essential materials. “We don’t have enough supplies for daily operations, leaving many new service connection applications pending,” the source said.
Critics argue that Primewater has failed to honor key provisions in its agreements, including expansion of service connections, water quality improvements, rehabilitation of facilities, and construction of pumping stations. Additionally, the company allegedly lacks adequate manpower, further hampering efficient service delivery.
Former water district officials and directors have begun calling for the termination of JVAs with Primewater, citing a drastic decline in service quality. “Before Primewater took over, our water districts were functioning well. Now, the service has worsened instead of improving,” one former official lamented.
Currently, 78 local water districts across the country operate under JVAs with Primewater, which is owned by business tycoon Manny Villar, father of senatorial candidate Camille Villar. The company’s growing control over local utilities has sparked renewed calls for accountability, with critics questioning its ability to fulfill its commitments to consumers.