Lawmakers blast Manila Waterhome/News/Headlines/Lawmakers blast Manila WaterLawmakers on Friday blasted Manila Water Co. Inc. for warning that water rates could increase “exponentially” if the Supreme Court decision upholding the massive penalty imposed on water concessionaires is implemented. Instead of complying with the Supreme Court order, they are now threatening consumers with an oppressive hike in water rates unless the high tribunal reverses its ruling. It was during Atienza’s term as Environment secretary when Manila Water and Maynilad Water Services Inc. were penalized with P100,000 daily for non-compliance with the Clean Water Act and provisions of their concession agreement. In its motion for reconsideration, Manila Water said enforcing the Supreme Court decision could lead to steep water rate hikes and trigger huge traffic jams because of the massive diggings. Atienza said the water concessionaires had enough time to construct treatment facilities.

Source: Manila Times October 11, 2019 17:03 UTC