LGU execs told not to meddle with local water district operations

MANILA, Philippines — Local officials have no business interfering in the operations of local water districts, the Department of the Interior and Local Government said Tuesday.

DILG made the statement amid reports that local government officials continue to exercise control over local water districts.

“Local officials should not poke their noses into the operation of local water districts because the said districts are autonomous by themselves,” DILG Secretary Eduardo Año.

He added: “Local officials should respect the autonomy of local water districts while giving their support and assistance to operations.”

Under the Provincial Water Utilities Act of 1973, a local water district is not under the jurisdiction of any political subdivision.

Mayors and governors can only influence water districts by appointing directors and approving a resolution to form water districts, the law stated.

Año warned that cases might be filed at the Office of the Ombudsman for investigation of complaints against mayors and governors who exercise power over local water districts.

The interior secretary, however, stressed that local water districts are allowed to partner with private entities to provide water for the local residents.

“Given their independence from any political supervision, water districts may enter into public-private partnerships or joint venture agreements with water utility companies,” Año said. — Gaea Katreena Cabico