Water pila
Seven congressmen who voted against the final reading approval of House Bills 9422 and 9423 decried the passage of the measures as the product of “unconscionable railroading.” HB 9422 and 9423, renewing the legislative franchises of Maynilad Water Services Inc. and Manila Water Company, respectively, to another 25 years. A total 206 House members registered “yes” votes for the passage of the bills.
In his State of the Nation Address just last week, President Duterte chided the two water concessionaires for benefitting from concession contracts that are grossly disadvantageous to consumers.
“The President has repeatedly chided the private concessionaires for their poor service and the supposed questionable provisions in the concession agreement. But here we are, approving the franchise for another 25 years for the same concessionaires without the slightest sense of inquiry into the matter,’ lamented Asst. Minority Leader and Gabriela Partylist Rep. Arlene Brosas said in explaining her “no vote.” Deputy Speaker and Buhay Partylist Rep. Lito Atienza said the two water firms have repeatedly failed to deliver on many obligations that are provided in their respective contracts.