The local government unit (LGU) of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, has officially taken control of the city's water district effective May 5, 2026. This drastic action follows severe service interruptions from PrimeWater that have left many residents without reliable access to clean water.
City Administrator Rizaldy Mendoza announced the takeover during a press conference, citing a March ordinance that highlighted the struggles faced by residents in 62 barangays, where 25% of households experienced significant water service disruptions.
These interruptions have led to class suspensions, health concerns, and disruption of social services. Mendoza emphasized that communication from PrimeWater, even under its new ownership by Crystal Bridges, has been non-existent.
Emergency Powers Activated
The LGU’s action comes after a state of calamity was declared in March 2026, which granted emergency powers to local officials. These powers allowed the city government to assume control of the water district in a bid to restore services.
“From the rank-and-file of the utility up to the president of PrimeWater — we talked to them all just to know what solutions we can do to help them,” Mendoza remarked, noting the lack of response from the utility company.
Rizaldy Mendoza
Despite the termination of PrimeWater's joint venture agreement with the LGU in November 2025, Mendoza stated that they had received no formal communication regarding the change in management after PrimeWater was acquired by Crystal Bridges.
Plans for Improvement
The takeover, authorized under City Ordinance No. 2026-03-012, will last for one year. During this period, the LGU plans to appoint an interim water utility operator to address immediate infrastructure needs that have been neglected under PrimeWater’s management.
Mendoza highlighted that of the pledged P6.8 billion for infrastructure, only P748 million was utilized, leaving critical projects unaddressed. The LGU aims to prioritize at least nine key infrastructure projects to ensure reliable water supply.
PrimeWater's Response
PrimeWater officials did not attend the press conference but received the takeover notice during a private meeting. Mendoza reported a lack of resistance from them, although they noted their objections to the takeover.
The LGU is now awaiting further actions from PrimeWater while maintaining that their takeover is legally sound based on extensive consultations.
As of now, no response has been received from PrimeWater regarding the takeover.