Malacañang is still considering ‘legal remedies’ to hold accountable the people behind the poor service of PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp. in previous years even after it changed ownership.
Last December, Villar Group announced that it sold PrimeWater to Crystal Bridges Holding Corp., which is owned by retail tycoon Lucio Co. The transaction was approved by the Philippine Competition Commission. The sale of PrimeWater took place months after it received numerous complaints from the local water districts, where it provided services. Some of the said water districts accused PrimeWater of being plagued with frequent and prolonged water interruptions, poor water quality, and exorbitant water rates.
President Ferdinand Marcos ordered the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) to probe the said allegations.
In July 2025, the Palace said it has started to review the large number of pieces of evidence on PrimeWater’s alleged poor service and that LWUA is considering taking over its operations as a last resort.
Castro said the government may still take action against the previous operator of PrimeWater.
‘Regarding the accountability of those who allegedly fell short in their service should be held liable, we are currently looking into legal remedies to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.’
The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) undersecretary said Marcos has directed LWUA to continue improving water services nationwide by developing new water sources and the expansion of water networks as well as reducing non-revenue water for qualified water districts.
LWUA also committed to ensure the companies will respect their commitment to water districts.
‘LWUA also stated that they are committed to their mandate and responsibilities regarding these water districts. Thus, LWUA continues to monitor, examine, and assess the services provided by the water districts,’ Castro said.