The Water for the People Network (WPN) lauded the residents of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan on November 3 for successfully terminating the joint venture agreement (JVA) between their local water district (LWD) and PrimeWater. The decision resulted from the broad and relentless struggle of the Alliance for Consumer Protection, the People’s Rights Network, and the residents who opposed water services privatization.

Despite the JVA’s complete termination, residents know that the fight is not yet over. None of the 15 LWDs that sought to end their contracts with PrimeWater this year have successfully withdrawn from the company.

“PrimeWater has repeatedly circumvented local petitions, as seen in Bacolod and Metro San Fernando, La Union. What’s equally alarming is that no comprehensive plan has been put forward to ensure continuous water service in these water-stressed areas once the JVAs are revoked,” WPN spokesperson Leo Espelimbergo said.

PrimeWater currently holds 77 JVAs with LWDs across the Philippines. Widespread complaints persist in these areas regarding insufficient or almost nonexistent water supply and dirty water, while service fees continue to rise.

A recent hearing by the Senate Committee on Public Services and the Commission on Audit revealed that most LWDs having JVAs with PrimeWater incurred financial losses. The company repeatedly failed to fulfill key obligations, including the proper remittance of funds to its partner agencies.

Democratic organizations and progressive lawmakers have called for a thorough review of other private water companies such as Lucio Co’s Pamana, the Pangilinan Group’s MetroPac Water, and the Ayalas’ Manila Water, which consumers have also complained about. The failure of their services exposes the emptiness of privatization.

The WPN also expressed its support for Engr. Calajete, former SJDM Water District Board Chair. He currently faces a perjury case after exposing the officials managing the agreement with PrimeWater.

“We will continue to demand immediate water service provision, full transparency in all JVAs, the rescinding of harmful contracts, and the public reclaiming of water systems. We will not forget how politicians and big business collude for profit at the expense of the people’s suffering,” the group declared.