PH antimonopoly body eyes tougher audits, monitoring to protect water consumers

The Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) and the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) explored opportunities to improve regulation and competition in the water distribution sector, whose major players are Manila Water Co., Maynilad Water Services and Prime Water.

A recent dialogue was organized to discuss the findings of the PCC’s market study on the sector, which highlighted key challenges such as limited consumer choice, high switching costs, and the complexities of introducing competition in a naturally monopolistic environment, the PCC said in a statement. 

While expanding consumer choice is inherently constrained by infrastructure and resource limitations, NWRB said ongoing efforts are underway to improve transparency and accountability through stricter tariff regulation, performance monitoring, and audit mechanisms.

PCC economists Elizabeth B. Udaundo (rightmost) and Jose Vivaldi S. Ericta (2nd from right) present the salient points of the market study on the water distribution sector during the strategic policy dialogue between the PCC and NWRB, held on June 11, 2025 in Quezon City./Photo from PCC

The dialogue also delved into the realities of water distribution in the context of existing regulatory framework that warrant a single distributor in certain service areas. 

The PCC and NWRB looked into new trends in more developed countries including retail competition in the water sector. Both agencies expressed openness to exploring innovative frameworks that prioritize sustainability and fair access to water services.

The PCC remains committed to working with key regulatory agencies in fostering a competitive and efficient regulatory environment.  

-Edited by Miguel R. Camus

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