Some Marikina residents lose water supply due to barangay's 'unremitted' payments
Residents of Barangay Tumana in Marikina City have lost their water services on Thursday, Dec. 18, after water concessionaire Manila Water disconnected their water supply due to the alleged failure of both the current and previous barangay captains to settle outstanding payments.
According to the residents, their water supply was activated through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed between the barangay and Manila Water dubbed “Patubig sa Tumana.” In turn, residents pay their water bills to the barangay, which then remits payment to the utility provider.
However, Barangay Captain Akiko Centeno allegedly failed to remit the payments of residents, allowing the balance to reach P37,192,199.98 as of Dec. 2, 2025, based on the notice of termination and final demand document sent by Manila Water to the barangay.
Despite repeated demands from the company, Barangay Tumana's officials allegedly did not settle their obligation, forcing the water service provider to disconnect the water service to all 13 common watering points under the agreement.
“This termination is without prejudice to any rights that may have accrued to Manila Water during the pendency of the MOA and its Supplement,” Manila Water said.
Following the disconnection, the company has given Barangay Tumana 15 days from receipt of the notice to settle the outstanding amount.
As of writing, the barangay has not made any payment agreement with Manila Water and no promissory note has been received.