Firm only wants joint water development

CEBU, Philippines — PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation has reiterated that it is only offering services through joint venture in its intention to do business in Cebu.

 “There is no deal yet whatsoever because Prime still has to do comprehensive study on the state of Cebu water,” the company said in a statement.

The water firm was referring to the report about its intention to partner with the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD).

PrimeWater presented its credentials with hope of initiating discussions for a joint water development.

The company clarified that its public-private partnership mission involves joint development of water distribution with existing stakeholders, whether local government units or local water districts.

“As such, the company continuously engages in exploratory discussions as part of its ordinary course of business with local government units and local water districts to assess if there are ways and means by which the company may contribute to and enhance water supply systems within their respective jurisdictions,” it said.

 PrimeWater said it sent a letter to the MCWD, requesting for data and information as requirements to determine whether there is an opportunity for a joint development.

“While as part of its mandate under its joint development initiatives the company finances and implements the construction, development and operation of critical infrastructure to support, supplement and enhance a local water system operator’s existing assets, the company does not in so doing engage in outright purchase or full privatization of such assets,” it added.

PrimeWater released the statement amid the ongoing dispute between Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama and the camp of MCWD chairman Jose “Joey” Daluz III.

Rama wanted Daluz replaced as chairman of the MCWD Board, saying he is not satisfied with Daluz’s performance.

Daluz, however, questioned Rama’s move for his removal alleging that the mayor wanted to privatize the operation of MCWD by favoring PrimeWater, which is owned by the family of former senator Manny Villar.

Rama had admitted meeting with the Villar group at his residence but insisted that he is not pushing for MCWD’s privatization.  — (FREEMAN)