How ironic that after the recent flooding in Bacolod, another challenge has emerged. The city might go waterless if PrimeWater fails to pay its obligations to its supplier, Bacolod Bulk Water Inc. (BBWI). Fortunately, Mayor Greg Gasataya released a public announcement on December 13 assuring residents that this will never happen, as PrimeWater has committed to settle its obligations.
Growing up in Bacolod until the late 1980s, I cannot recall any scarcity of water under BACIWA. It is surprising to see the city now facing such issues, such as the floods this December, and then the threat of water shortages due to non-payment to BBWI, which supplies 40 percent of Bacolod’s requirements. Even here in Dasmariñas, Cavite, PrimeWater customers have also raised complaints about water supply, with many wishing that services be returned to government-managed water districts.
BACIWA’s partnership with PrimeWater is a 25-year Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) that began in 2020, intended to upgrade Bacolod’s water system. PrimeWater pledged over P 1.6 billion for pipe laying, new wells, and improved service, aiming to provide 24/7 water access for most residents. While projects such as new generators and bulk water supply agreements have been implemented, consumers continue to report poor water quality and service issues, prompting calls to review the JVA.
In his public announcement, Mayor Gasataya said, “It is very unfortunate that after the City’s intervention to resolve the same issue last July, another one arose under the watch of BACIWA, who has the ultimate and primary obligation under its current Joint Venture Agreement with PrimeWater to ensure that no water crisis will ever occur in Bacolod.
On the part of the city government, we will remain firm and steadfast to ensure that our people will continue to receive the kind of public service they truly deserve. We will never allow the welfare of our constituents to be prejudiced and compromised just because someone is remiss of its contractual obligations. Hand in hand, we can all work things together for Bacolod.”
The welfare of the people should always come before business interests. At the same time, we should be grateful for corporations that remain service-oriented and consider public welfare beyond profit. While these companies invest billions to improve services, such investments are necessary for them to sustain profitability, after all, no customer would willingly pay for poor service.
Congressman Albee Benitez has also declared unequivocally that there will be no water interruptions. Water and electricity are basic human needs, second only to food. After the typhoon last November 4, Bacolod endured several days of brownouts, prompting residents to buy generators, which quickly went out of stock. Both electricity and water are indispensable necessities.
I personally experienced being without water for several days when Maynilad conducted repairs in Cavite years ago. Since then, I have kept a water tank storage at home and made sure it is always filled.
I sincerely hope this impending challenge in Bacolod will be resolved soon, and in a proper manner that brings peace of mind to all residents. It is only right that government authorities provide not just assurances but guarantees that Bacolod will have ample water supply during Christmas and beyond. ||
