Maynilad and Manila Water explained the bills issued to their customers are based on actual meter reading since the start of lockdown until the month of June. They also claimed that water consumption is usually high during summer season and that the COVID-19 outbreak has become an additional factor in the current situation.
“Nadadagdagan po ba sila ng bilang ng tao na nag-stay po sa bahay during ECQ? Malamang po na tataas ang konsumo nila (Did the number of people who stayed home during ECQ increase? Then their consumption is more likely to increase),” Maynilad Spokesperson Zmel Grabillo said.
“Mayroon tayong mga panawagan na maghugas ng kamay palagi, mag-disinfect ng mga gamit, etcetera; talagang bahagi ito ng rason (There is a call for frequent hand washing and to disinfect. Of course this is a part of the reason),” Manila Water Corporate Strategic Affairs Group Head Jeric Sevilla Jr. added.
The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) Regulatory Office is now investigating the reports of alleged overbilling by the two companies.
“If there was an error in the billing, then they are required to refund or rebate this over charging,” MWSSRO Chief Regulator Atty. Patrick Ty said.
Customers have the discretion whether to pay or not their contested bill until complaints are resolved. – Report from Cleizl Pardilla
