Mayor Ruffy Biazon welcomes MWSS fine on Maynilad, calls for long-term water solutions

Mayor Ruffy Biazon backed the decision of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office to penalize Maynilad Water Services Inc., stressing that accountability must go hand in hand with long-term solutions to recurring water disruptions.

The MWSS-RO slapped Maynilad with a ₱54.28 million fine and ordered a ₱327.96 rebate for customers affected by unreliable water supply in the West Zone, including residents of Muntinlupa City. The move came after repeated service interruptions that disrupted daily life for thousands of households.

Biazon acknowledged that the penalty and rebate provide some level of recognition for the inconvenience suffered by consumers, but he emphasized that these measures alone are not enough to resolve the deeper issues surrounding water supply.

Call for sustainable solutions

The Muntinlupa mayor underscored the need for structural and long-term fixes, warning against relying solely on temporary remedies that fail to address the root cause of the problem. He said water concessionaires must be held to a higher standard of service delivery moving forward.

Biazon pointed out that while financial penalties may serve as a deterrent, they should also act as a wake-up call for Maynilad to improve operational efficiency and ensure uninterrupted service for its customers. He reiterated that access to clean and reliable water remains a basic necessity that should not be compromised.

He also urged national agencies to take a broader look at systemic challenges affecting water distribution, saying that coordination among regulators and service providers is critical in preventing future disruptions.

Laguna de Bay concerns raised

Beyond service performance, Biazon called for a closer examination of the water quality in Laguna de Bay, one of the main sources tapped for domestic supply in the affected areas. He raised concerns that the condition of the lake could be contributing to treatment and distribution challenges.

The mayor emphasized that ensuring the safety and sustainability of water sources is just as important as maintaining infrastructure. He said a comprehensive assessment is needed to determine whether environmental factors are impacting supply consistency.

Biazon added that findings from such evaluations should guide long-term planning, including investments in infrastructure and improvements in water treatment systems. He stressed that a proactive approach is necessary to secure a stable supply for future generations.

The issue of water interruptions has been a recurring concern in Muntinlupa, prompting Biazon to summon Maynilad officials in March to explain the situation and present concrete solutions. He reiterated that residents deserve clear answers and reliable service.

As the situation develops, Biazon maintained that accountability, transparency, and long-term planning must remain at the center of efforts to resolve the water crisis. He said both government and private stakeholders must work together to ensure a sufficient, safe, and continuous water supply.