Hontiveros Seeks Senate Inquiry into PrimeWater Joint Ventures with Local Water Districts

Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros has filed Senate Resolution No. 1352, urging the Senate to conduct a full investigation into the joint venture agreements (JVAs) between local water districts and private companies. The move comes after the Commission on Audit (COA) flagged these deals as potentially disadvantageous to the public.

The resolution calls on the Senate Committee on Public Services to examine issues surrounding partnerships involving PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation, Manila Water Philippine Ventures, and Metro Pacific Water Investments Corp.

COA reports highlighted multiple irregularities in the agreements, raising concerns over legality, economic feasibility, and their impact on service quality and water tariffs. Some water districts, including the San Jose Del Monte Water District, reportedly suffered financial setbacks following such joint ventures. Meanwhile, consumers in areas served by PrimeWater—such as Bulacan, Camarines Norte and Bacolod City—have complained about poor service, water shortages, and increased tariffs. These issues have triggered public protests and demands for government intervention.

Hontiveros underscored the need to review the current regulatory framework governing water district joint ventures and to enhance oversight mechanisms. She also pointed out the possibility that at least 11 water districts may terminate their JVAs, indicating the extent of the problem.

There have been growing complaints from consumers being charged for water services despite having little to no water supply. Local officials in Bulacan, including the governor and vice governor, have recently raised similar concerns and have called for a Senate probe, particularly into the operations of PrimeWater, which is owned by the Villar family.