Villar denies ties to PrimeWater amid complaints

Senator Mark Villar denied on Saturday that he had any ownership or controlling interest in PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp., a water service provider owned by his family.

Villar stated that during his tenure as secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways from 2016 to 2021, he did not participate in any transactions involving PrimeWater and its partner districts.

Palace press officer Claire Castro reported on Friday that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is reviewing a comprehensive report submitted by the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) regarding complaints against PrimeWater's joint venture agreements.

Customers have complained about prolonged service interruptions, dirty water, and higher rates compared to other suppliers.

A resolution has been filed in the House of Representatives seeking an inquiry into PrimeWater's JVAs, while the company has vowed to cooperate with LWUA and address concerns through meaningful dialogue.