Metro Manila water concessionaires Maynilad Water Services and Manila Water will not hike charges in 2021 in light of the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic on consumers.

In a statement on Tuesday, November 3, Maynilad said it is foregoing the rate increases it is qualified to implement next year, specifically the rebasing adjustment for 2021 and the mandated inflation increase.

The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System-Regulatory Office had approved the rebasing adjustment of P1.95 per cubic meter for 2021.

The inflation or consumer price index adjustment for 2021 was supposed to be at 2.7% of the basic charge, which meant an additional P1.03 per cubic meter.

“With this deferral, Maynilad hopes to alleviate the day-to-day struggles of its customers as they and the whole country strive to recover from adversity and rise stronger than before, ready to start anew,” Maynilad said.

Maynilad provides water and sewerage services in the cities of Caloocan, Las Piñas, Malabon, Muntinlupa, Navotas, Parañaque, Pasay, and Valenzuela; as well as portions of Manila, Quezon City, and Makati.

Ayala-led Manila Water on Wednesday, November 4, also announced that it decided to defer new rates in light of the pandemic.

It was set to implement a P2 rate adjustment for 2021, as well as an increase factoring in inflation.

“With this decision, we continue to put our customers first as we heed the government’s call to help mitigate the impact of the disruption of economic activity on most Filipinos,” Manila Water said.

Manila Water provides water and wastewater services to the eastern part of Metro Manila, particularly the cities of Mandaluyong, San Juan, Pasig, Marikina, and Taguig; the municipality of Pateros; and portions of Makati, Manila, and Quezon City, as well as the province of Rizal.

Maynilad and Manila Water earlier implemented a 30-day grace period and staggered payment scheme amid the pandemic. – Rappler.com