Ensure continuous water supply – Poe

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Grace Poe asked yesterday the major water concessionaires to do their utmost to avoid service interruptions in their coverage areas in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

Despite the rains, water level at Angat Dam decreased, as well as in other dams except Ambuklao and Ipo. However, water level in these dams remain below normal as of June 2.

“Having waterless days amid the rains shouldn’t be the normal. Consumers should never bear the brunt of concessionaires’ inability to store sufficient volumes of water to meet reasonable demands,” Poe reminded the concessionaires in a statement.

“Residents don’t deserve to live miserably, as their taps run dry for reasons that can be duly managed in the first place,” she said.

The senator is expected to be elected anew to chair the committee on public services, which has oversight over the water concessionaires and other utilities.

Poe, who sponsored Maynilad Water Services Inc. and Manila Water Co. Inc.’s renewal of franchises last year, said the firms should fulfill their obligations in delivering clean, quality and reliable water services to consumers.

She pointed out that concessionaires are mandated to regularly improve their facilities, pipelines and equipment for efficient and reliable service.

The two companies must also ensure that service interruptions would be minimal and that mechanisms are in place for consumer complaints and stakeholder consultations.

“Water interruptions affect not only households, but also struggling businesses that are just beginning to recover from the lockdowns. A few hours without water could be disruptive,” she said.

She said the government and concessionaires should embark on timely efforts in developing concrete backup supply sources.

“Water firms are expected to address recurring strains in their capacity to deliver water to our people,” Poe said.

“Consumers who strive hard to set aside hard-earned sums to pay for their water bills should also get their fair share of clean water flowing without interruption,” she said.

Likewise, the MWSS Regulatory Office should have received the plans and programs of the water concessionaires for the next rate-rebasing exercise, the periodic performance review that also sets the tariff rates that can be charged for their services.

“Water is a basic right and we hope the MWSS fulfills its role as a regulator to ensure that consumers aren’t shortchanged,” Poe said.