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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Poe assures scrutiny of House-approved Maynilad, Manila Water franchises

Poe assures scrutiny of House-approved Maynilad, Manila Water franchises

Published Aug 5, 2021 02:07 pm

Senator Grace Poe on Thursday, August 5, assured that the Senate will not be hasty in discussing and approving the franchise renewal applications of Maynilad Water Services Inc. and Manila Water Company.

Senator Grace Poe (Senate of the Philippines/MANILA BULLETIN File photo)

"We assure that the bills will go through a fine-tooth comb at the Senate to guarantee that our people are not shortchanged and will get the quality service they deserve," Poe, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Services hand, said in a statement.

Poe gave the assurance amid complaints that the House of the Representative rushed the renewal of legislative franchises of the two Metro Manila water concessionaires for another 25 years.

Some congressmen saw the approval of House Bills No. 9422 and 9423 as a product of "unconscionable railroading", with a House leader even calling for its recall.

President Duterte previously chided Maynilad and Manila Water over their "poor services" that triggered a review of their onerous contracts with the government.

"We must put an end to the woes drowning many households for years due to lack of safe water to drink, high rates and constant supply interruption," Poe agreed.

She said the bills "should also address the looming water scarcity exacerbated by the growing demand for the commodity and the lack of urgency in tapping new sustainable sources."

"Businesses imbued with public interest must ensure that citizens' welfare takes precedence over private profit," Poe pointed out.

Under the Constitution, franchise bills must first be passed in the House of Representatives before the the Senate can deliberate and approve them.

The Senate public service panel handles legislative franchises of public utilities.

Related Tags

Senate Manila Water Maynilad water concessionaires franchise renewal Grace Poe Franchise
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