The bishop of Daet has demanded accountability from water concessionaire Primewater Infrastructure Corporation and government authorities over the worsening water crisis in Camarines Norte, south of Manila.
The prelate said the crisis has left families, schools, and hospitals struggling for clean and reliable water.
In a pastoral letter issued on September 7, Bishop Herman Guinto Abcede, RCJ, DD, said that “clean and reliable water – which is essential to life, health, dignity, and livelihood – has become a daily struggle for our people.”
He noted that despite the joint venture agreement meant to improve service, “the promise of proper service in water through the Joint Venture Agreement (JVA) has failed until now to address the needs of our province.”
The prelate stressed that the issue goes beyond infrastructure problems, adding that it is “not merely a technical issue” but “a moral and social issue.”
He cited the Catholic social teaching on the right to water as a matter of human dignity. Bishop Abcede called on Primewater, local officials, and government agencies to act.
“Acknowledge the shortcomings in the current water distribution system and lay out a clear schedule of concrete steps for improvement,” he urged.
He further pressed for “meaningful consultations with affected communities and sectors, including local leaders, civil society, and the Church,” and a review of the Primewater contract “based on the common good and the principle of giving priority to the poor.”
He clarified, however, that the Church’s appeal is not about blame but responsibility. “We are not looking for someone to blame – but we are demanding accountability,” he said.
Bishop Abcede urged the faithful to remain united and steadfast, emphasizing that solidarity, faith, and truth are essential in building a Camarines Norte where families have access to clean water and leaders fulfill their duties with integrity.
