By By Juliane Judilla
Progressive and consumer groups held a picket protest in front of the Metro Iloilo Water District office in Iloilo City on Monday, October 20, to oppose the proposed water rate hike by Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW).
Led by Bagong Alyansang Makabayan–Panay and the Panay Consumers Alliance (PCA), the groups condemned the proposed 26% increase in water rates.
MPIW is set to raise its rates from ₱20 per cubic meter to ₱25.20 starting this November, a 26% increase, with a further increase to ₱28.67 (43%) per cubic meter expected by March 2026.
It is worth noting that MPIW has not raised its prices since 2019. Inflation is cited as one factor for the increase, as basic goods like gasoline, electricity, and construction materials have risen by 74% since 2019. Additionally, the cost of bulk water reportedly increases by 33% each year.
However, the groups argued that operational expenses should be shouldered by the company, not the consumers — especially considering that MPIW has still managed to generate profit over the past six years without increasing rates.
“In the midst of poverty, an additional burden of 43% — from ₱224 including 12% VAT to ₱321 — is already a heavy weight for consumers,” they said.
The groups also criticized the poor quality of service, pointing out that despite the ongoing price hikes, services remain inadequate.
“Water supply remains insufficient, forcing some residents to buy directly from MIWD at more expensive prices. The water is undrinkable, murky, and not available 24/7 — some consumers even have to stay up late waiting for water,” they added.
Bayan–Panay and PCA are calling for free and quality access to water and other essential social services. They also demand the cancellation of the Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) between the city government and MPIW.
Furthermore, the groups demanded that MPIW’s financial reports and status be made public to ensure transparency. They are also calling on the City Government to conduct an investigation and a public hearing to ensure that the voices of the ordinary people — not just a privileged few — are heard./PT
