Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque described the new agreement as being favorable to suppliers since Manila Water will become a public utility by 2022.
“Wala na po yung provision na bagamat pribado ang mga kompanyang nagbibigay ng tubig, yung mga pagkakautang nila ay magiging pagkakautang pa ng ating gobyerno,” Roque said.
Fee adjustments will also be capped at two-thirds of inflation, rather than mimic the full rise in consumer prices or a 12% “nominal discount rate.
Changes in the contract also means government liability will be diluted in case Manila Water files a lawsuit.
The Department of Justice led the crafting of a new concession agreement after President Rodrigo Duterte slammed the supposed onerous provisions in the contracts of Manila Water and Maynilad in 2019.
