Bacolod seeks clear plans on water supply

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Mayor Greg Gasataya said the city is awaiting firm assurance and an effective solution to address Bacolod’s water supply problem.

Gasataya said businessman Lucio Co, who owns Puregold Price Club Inc. and membership shopping chain S&R, invited him to a courtesy meeting in the city on Sunday and signified interest in investing in the local water district.

The Bacolod City Water District previously entered into a joint venture agreement with PrimeWater, a subsidiary of Prime Asset Ventures Inc., which has faced consumer complaints over the quality and reliability of its water services.

The Villar Group earlier released a statement confirming that it had entered into definitive agreements with Co’s group, Crystal Bridges Holding Corp., for the acquisition of 100 percent of PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp.

Gasataya said he is waiting for the outcome of the legal processes involving PrimeWater.

“Whatever process they have with PrimeWater, the water district, and other companies, is up to them, but the priority is ensuring a steady water supply for the residents of Bacolod,” he said in a media interview on Monday.

Gasataya stressed that Bacolod’s water supply problem cannot remain unresolved for long.

“As a city, we are having problems right now with the water supply, especially as summer approaches,” the mayor said.

He added that complaints from residents have persisted for quite some time, especially over what has been happening with PrimeWater.

He said he wants to protect the interests of the city and ensure a 24/7 water supply for residents.

Bacolod Rep. Alfredo “Albee” Benitez earlier announced Co’s interest in investing PHP 3 billion to improve the water service of Baciwa-PrimeWater.

Baciwa-PrimeWater earlier said PHP 1.5 billion is needed to improve water services in the city.

“Whatever their plans are, it would be better if there is an official communication. They should submit a written proposal to the water district and the city,” he said.

Aside from Baciwa, PrimeWater has also entered into joint venture agreements with water districts in Cadiz City, Bago City, and Himamaylan City in Negros Occidental.