BREAK: MWSS fines Manila Water for supply shortage

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System has slapped fines totaling P1.13 billion against Manila Water Co. Inc. in relation to the ongoing supply shortage at the East Zone concession.

The MWSS board of trustees said in a statement penalties include P534 million for not meeting service requirements and an additional P600 million intended for the concessionaire to develop a new water source.

This is on top of the voluntary bill waiver — a self-imposed penalty — which Manila Water earlier said could cost the company close to P500 million.

In a separate statement, Manila Water said it will abide with the sanctions, considering it was unable to provide its customers round-the-clock supply at 7 pounds per square inch.

“While we are not the root cause for the inadequacy of the raw water supply coming from Angat Dam which we are mandated to treat and distribute, Manila Water, as agent and contractor of water services of MWSS, hold ourselves accountable for our inability to provide our consumers with the usual uninterrupted water service,“  company president and CEO Ferdinand dela Cruz said.  /muf