Photo: DENR-EMB inspectors dismantle a faucet at a septage facility after finding the sampling line directly connected to a potable water source, raising concerns over water testing integrity.
02 July 2026 – The City Government of San Jose del Monte has expressed its full support for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) investigation into the fraudulent water testing protocols and unsanitary operations of PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp., following the agency’s discovery of a potable water connection linked to the water testing line at a septage treatment facility.
The finding was made during a joint inspection by the City Government, DENR-Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), and Metro Pacific Bulacan Water (MPBW) on June 29, 2026. DENR-EMB inspectors dismantled a faucet installed in the septage treatment facility’s water sampling system. The inspection revealed that the water sampling line was connected directly to a potable water source instead of receiving treated water as required. According to the DENR, the configuration could compromise the integrity of water quality testing and may constitute a prohibited act under Republic Act No. 9275, or the Philippine Clean Water Act.
DENR-EMB Regional Director Martin Despi said the agency would submit its findings to the Pollution Adjudication Board (PAB), the DENR’s quasi-judicial body tasked with determining the appropriate regulatory action should violations be established.
In addition to the findings at the septage treatment facility, the inspection team also assessed Booster Station No. 2 in Barangay Minuyan Proper, where a corroded and damaged tank cover, raised concerns over the entry of rainwater, rust, and other contaminants into the city’s potable water supply under former PrimeWater’s operations. MPBW is now treating this water before being distributed.
The City Government said it welcomes the DENR’s independent regulatory review as an important step toward ensuring transparency, accountability, and the restoration of public confidence in San Jose del Monte’s water system.“The City Government remains committed to fully cooperating with the DENR and all concerned regulatory agencies as they complete their investigation. The findings will help guide the ongoing rehabilitation of the City’s water facilities and reinforce our efforts to ensure that every San Joseño receives safe, reliable, and quality water service,” the City Government said.
