Bulacan: Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas senatorial candidate and ACT-CIS party-list Representative Erwin Tulfo emphasized the urgency of reviewing the government’s existing agreements with private companies like Villar-owned PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation (PWIC). Speaking at a press conference at Bulacan State University, Tulfo urged Congress and the Senate to reassess these deals, citing failures in service delivery.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tulfo proposed that any contracts with private companies that fail to provide reliable public utility services should be revoked. He criticized companies for not adhering to the required regulations, suggesting a thorough examination of the rules governing franchise grants as a necessary step to address service issues.

Former senator Panfilo Lacson, who is contemplating a political comeback under the administration’s slate, supported President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to investigate PrimeWater’s operations. This follows numerous complaints about service disruptions and high rates. Lacson pointed out that Congress should consider launching its own investigation, indicating that these problems might not be isolated to PrimeWater alone but could reflect a broader issue affecting multiple areas.

Former Senate President Vicente Sotto III, another Alyansa senatorial candidate, stressed the importance of prioritizing public utilities, highlighting the critical nature of basic needs. President Marcos had previously ordered an inquiry into PrimeWater’s services due to its alleged failure to deliver reliable, safe, and affordable water services.

In response to these concerns, the Makabayan bloc in the House of Representatives has filed a resolution calling for a congressional probe into the joint venture agreements between PrimeWater and over 130 local water districts nationwide.