Access to water is a human right — CHR

MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) yesterday called on the government to expedite crafting solutions to the supposed water crisis hitting parts of Metro Manila, stressing that access to water is a human right.

“Water plays a crucial role in human life. Part of sustaining life is its role in nourishing, as well as ensuring, that we achieve the highest attainable standard of health and living through sufficient, safe and accessible water,” CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia said.

“The recent water interruptions, mainly those serviced by Manila Water, have already affected households and public services, such as hospitals. As such, we call on the government to expediently craft solutions, both immediate and long-term, to address this issue that has already affected large communities,” she added.

De Guia also stressed the need to recognize the role of water companies as duty bearers, noting their capacity to shape how people enjoy basic human rights.

“In finding a resolution to this problem, we hope that ways forward would always be mindful of the rights of others, such as those of indigenous peoples’ communities in developing dams, and would always be to the benefit of the majority of Filipinos,” she said.

The supposed water crisis has revived talks over the establishment of dams that will secure water supply in Metro Manila.

Some sectors, however, warned of its impact on indigenous’ peoples communities who may be displaced or affected by the projects.

Others have also raised concern over the proposals to let the Chinese government fund these dam projects.

File cases

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said consumers and businesses severely affected by the water interruption in Metro Manila and nearby areas may file civil cases against Ayala-owned Manila Water Co. Inc.

Guevarra said damage suits could be filed against the provider of water supply to over six million people in the east zone of the National Capital Region once the real cause of the water supply problem is established.

“If there is showing of fault or negligence on the part of Manila Water and if it is established that this crisis is caused not by natural causes of force majeure (unforeseeable circumstance), then affected consumers may file damage suits individually,” Guevarra said.

Guevarra stressed the evidence of fault or negligence on the part of the water concessionaire must first be established before any possible civil suit could be filed.

But he clarified that while thousands of residents under Manila Water’s service have been severely affected by the water interruption, a class suit against the firm might not work. – With Edu Punay, Emmanuel Tupas