This letter formalizes the proposal by Laban Konsyumer Inc. aired on TV Patrol and in Balitanghali of GMA 7 last Thursday, March 14, 2019.
Laban Konsyumer Inc. proposed that Manila Water defer the collection of the rate increases authorized by the MWSS during the last 4th Rate Rebasing Period in the amount of Php 1.46 per cubic meter that started October 16, 2018, and the 5.7 % Consumer Price Index for 2019 in the amount of Php 0.64 per cubic meter, or a total of Php 2.10 per cu. m. until the supply of water returns to normal.
Meantime, the reduction due to the Foreign Currency Differential Adjustment ( FCDA ) of Php 0.31 per cu m be immediately implemented in March, instead of April, 2019.
Likewise, any additional charges per cubic meter, operational costs and expenses that Manila Water has to pay to Maynilad Services arising from the “ sharing of water supply “ should be absorb solely by Manila Water as its sunk cost , and should not find its way as pass on charges to the customers of Manila Water .
The proposal was aired in the light of the interruption of supply and services of Manila Water to provide 24/7 water to all its customers in the concession areas.
2 out of 4 Pillars of sustainability of the Manila Water Business Plan for the 4th Rate Rebasing Period include Water Security and Service Continuity to its customers. Customers are experiencing difficulty in securing water for their daily needs. Consumers expected better services given that the MWSS approved a water rate increase for the company last year as well as the impact of inflation this year. Consumers deserve better and excellent service in return from the concessionaire.
We hope that this proposal merits your favorable action.
Thank you,
Very truly yours,
Atty. Victorio Mario A. Dimagiba