URDANETA City Mayor Julio F. Parayno III has ordered the suspension of the business permit of PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation, citing multiple verified complaints over inadequate water service in the city.

The suspension was formalized through Executive Order No. 002, Series of 2026, signed on January 9, 2026, halting PrimeWater’s operations as the city’s water utility provider.

According to the executive order, the decision stemmed from persistent public complaints regarding prolonged water interruptions, low water pressure in several barangays, and water quality issues that allegedly caused significant inconvenience to residents.

The order cited the authority of the local government under Republic Act No. 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991, which empowers local chief executives to regulate, suspend, or revoke business permits when public welfare is at risk.

The Urdaneta City Water District (UWD), through its Board of Directors, also reported continuing deficiencies in PrimeWater’s delivery of adequate and reliable water service. City officials said the reported issues raised concerns related to public health, water quality, and the sustainability of local water resources.

The suspension followed Resolution No. 179, Series of 2025–28 of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, which recommended immediate action against PrimeWater due to what it described as grossly inadequate water service.

Under the order, the Urdaneta City Water District was directed to assume full water service operations within a 30-day transition period upon receipt of the directive. PrimeWater was instructed to cooperate in the orderly turnover of operations to ensure an uninterrupted water supply to residents.

The executive order took effect immediately. (Ahikam Pasion)