WATER CRISIS EXPOSES NEED FOR STRICT NATIONAL SERVICE STANDARDS

MANILA, Philippines — The government must stop allowing communities to bear the brunt of unreliable water service and impose strict, uniform national standards on all water providers, a consumer think tank said.

CONSUMA PH founder and spokesperson Atty. Nat Oducado said the PrimeWater controversy in Bulacan should be treated as a warning that water consumers need stronger protection—not promises and excuses.

“Consumers should not have to beg for water,” Oducado said, stressing that every water provider must meet clear standards on water pressure, supply hours, service continuity, water quality, new connections and complaint resolution.

He called for automatic penalties and consumer compensation when providers fail to meet guaranteed service levels, including refunds or service credits.

For communities experiencing prolonged interruptions, Oducado said persistent failure should have serious consequences, including possible suspension or termination of a provider’s authority to operate.

“The PrimeWater issue is not just about one company. It is about whether government will protect communities when essential water services fail,” Oducado said.

He urged authorities to establish a national accountability system so that no community is left without reliable water while operators face little or no immediate consequence.