10 June 2022
PRESS RELEASE

MWSS RO PROBES MAYNILAD OVER SURGE IN CUSTOMER COMPLAINTS ON WATER SUPPLY AND QUALITY ISSUES

On 08 June 2022, the MWSS Regulatory Office (RO) issued a Notice to Explain to Maynilad Water Services, Inc., following a surge in customer complaints received and monitored by the Office through various communication channels, including social media. These complaints reported prolonged and recurring water supply and quality issues in the West Zone, particularly in the cities of Muntinlupa, Las Piñas, Parañaque, and parts of Cavite.

The MWSS RO is alarmed that the said issues remain despite Maynilad’s current allocation of more than 2,400 MLD at the Novaliches Portal, and implementation of various measures to mitigate the impact of problems surrounding its Putatan Water Treatment Plant. The Office is gravely concerned about the adverse effects of the continuing water supply and quality issues on the health and welfare of the consumers.

The MWSS RO recognizes the importance of ensuring an adequate supply of potable water for all customers, especially during this difficult time of the pandemic. Based on the Concession Agreement, Maynilad is expected to provide an uninterrupted 24 hour supply of water to all connected customers in its Service Area, and to ensure that the quality of water being supplied to its customers is compliant with the Philippine National Drinking Water Standards set by the Department of Health.

In a meeting held on 09 June, Maynilad explained that water service interruptions had to be implemented in the southern part of the West Zone due to the reduced water production attributable to high algal count in the Laguna Lake, and the delay in delivery of algae mitigating equipment. As the MWSS RO directed to fast track the resolution of these persisting issues, the Concessionaire committed to significantly improve water production by 11 June (Saturday) and to resume full production not later than 15 June (Wednesday).

The MWSS RO warns Maynilad that it will not hesitate to impose the appropriate sanctions, disallowances, penalties, and/or fines on the Concessionaire for any verified violation of its contractual obligations, or any failure to efficiently and prudently provide water, sewerage, and sanitation services to all of its customers.

Meanwhile, the MWSS RO assures affected customers that their welfare and interests are prioritized while investigations are ongoing in light of these issues.

(sgd.)
PATRICK LESTER N. TY
Chief Regulator