Manila Water and Maynilad Water Services were ordered by the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) to give customers a one-month grace period for water bills during the strict coronavirus quarantine periods.

The MWSS Regulatory Office on Wednesday, September 30, said Metro Manila water concessionaires should grant the grace period for water bills that were due within the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) and modified ECQ periods, “in solidarity with the spirit and intentions” of the Bayanihan to Recover as One law.

The regulator also ordered a 3-month installment scheme for all cooperatives; micro, small, and medium enterprises; and domestic customers after the grace period. (READ: You can now text Maynilad, Manila Water for bills)

“The said directives will provide customers ample time to update payments for water bills that fell due within the [August 4 to 18] MECQ period without incurring interests, penalties, and other charges,” the MWSS said.

Both Manila Water and Maynilad earlier gave customers 6 months to settle bills until September 30, put off disconnection of services since the imposition of looser lockdown restrictions, and waived interest and penalties. The latest order gives further relief. – Rappler.com