On September 6, the Daet Diocese released a pastoral letter regarding the water crisis in Camarines Norte. Bishop Herman Abcede’s letter expressed the church’s concern over the lack of water service in many areas, which has lasted for months and even years without clear explanation, accountability, or concrete solutions from the authorities.

He said Primewater failed to fulfill its promise of better water service. Many towns continue to suffer from fluctuating and insufficient supply, and in some areas, almost no water supply at all. This forced many schools to change class schedules. Hospitals and health centers also struggle. The poor and the elderly suffer the most because they cannot store or fetch enough water.

“Water is a basic human right. It must not be treated merely as a commodity for profit, especially when access becomes unjust and unequal,” Bishop Abcede said.

Bishop Abcede called on Primewater, local officials, and all relevant agencies to launch consultations with affected communities, review Primewater’s current contract and implementation, and for the company to acknowledge its failures in service and assume accountability.

He also appealed to citizens to document and report cases of water shortages, especially when their health and education are at risk, and to look for temporary solutions to the water crisis.

In addition, he encouraged the public to join a day of prayer on October 4, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, for water justice in the province.