Solon asks gov’t to block planned hike in water rates

By Charlie V. Manalo 12/23/2011

Bagong Henerasyon Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Dy yesterday asked the government to block the planned hike in water rates that could provide a gloomy start for 2012.

Describing the water rate increase as both unconscionable and unjustified, Herrera-Dy said Maynilad Water Services Inc. and Manila Water Corp. should not be allowed to “impose their will” on the public until they have justified the numerous unwarranted service adjustments in the past.

“We expect the two water concessionaires to cite contractual provisions to justify what appears to be an insatiable thirst for profit. But can we expect government, including the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, to cite moral and legal justifications to quench the water consumers’ thirst for fairness?” Herrera-Dy said in a statement as she stressed that public interest requires government to step into the controversy..... MORE

Source:  The Daily Tribune

URL: http://www.tribuneonline.org/metro/20111223met1.html