SUBIC, Zambales – The new management of Prime Water Infrastructure Corporation has pledged immediate and long-term investments to address persistent water supply problems in Subic following its acquisition by Crystal Bridges Holdings Corporation and Private Asset Ventures Incorporated.
During a press conference on June 9, 2026, company officials announced that the acquisition of Prime Water’s outstanding capital stock had been completed following approval from the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC), ushering in a new chapter for the utility provider serving thousands of consumers in Subic.
The new ownership acknowledged the longstanding water service issues that have affected residents and businesses, particularly during the dry season, and apologized for the shortcomings experienced under the previous management.
“We recognize the difficulties these challenges have caused for households, businesses, and the community. We understand that there have been lapses in the past, and we are committed to rectifying the situation at the soonest possible time,” said Jose Paulino Santamarina, President of Prime Water Infrastructure Corporation.
To improve water availability and service reliability, the new management unveiled several priority projects scheduled for implementation within the year.
Among the key initiatives is the development and operation of three new deep well stations in Barangays Pamatawan, Naugsol, and Mangalambam. The facilities are expected to augment water supply, particularly during summer months when water levels at the Mangalambam Dam and River decline.
According to Santamarina, the additional water sources are expected to benefit residents in Pamatawan, Ilwas, Baraca-Camachile, Wawandue, Calapandayan, Asinan Poblacion, Asinan Proper, and neighboring communities that have long suffered from low water pressure and intermittent supply.
Another major infrastructure project involves the complete replacement of aging pipelines in Barangay Calapandayan, he added. Many existing pipes have become difficult to maintain due to their depth following previous road rehabilitation projects, resulting in significant water losses from leaks that are hard to detect and repair.
The company also committed to maintaining standby pumps and motors to ensure faster response during equipment breakdowns and minimize service interruptions.
Engr. Lanie Quinto, Operations Head of Prime Water Infrastructure Corporation, said the first deep well project in Pamatawan is expected to commence this June, with the remaining two sites to follow shortly thereafter. The company aims to have all three facilities operational before the end of 2026.
Subic Water District General Manager Jose B. Dinulong welcomed the commitments but emphasized that the district would closely monitor the implementation of the promised projects. He reiterated that while the district continues to give the new management an opportunity to address the water crisis, it remains prepared to pursue legal remedies should the commitments fail to materialize.
Zambales 1st District Representative Jay Khonghun and Subic Mayor Jonathan Khonghun also expressed cautious optimism during the press conference, noting that similar commitments had been made in previous years without producing lasting improvements.
“Our constituents deserve more than promises—they deserve results,” Congressman Jay Khonghun said. “The development of new water sources and infrastructure upgrades are positive steps, but what matters most is timely execution. We will work with the local government, the Subic Water District, and the new management to ensure accountability and that these commitments bring real and lasting improvements to the lives of our people.”
Mayor Jonathan Khonghun echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that the local government would continue to place the interests of Subiqueños at the forefront.
“For many years, our people have endured recurring water shortages, especially during the summer season,” the mayor said. “Today, we welcome the commitment of Prime Water’s new management to invest in long-term solutions, but our priority remains the welfare of Subiqueños. We will continue to closely monitor the implementation of these projects to ensure that the promised improvements translate into reliable and sustainable water service for every household and business in Subic.”
In response, representatives of the new ownership group highlighted their experience in managing large-scale business operations and water utility services, assuring the public that substantial investments, operational discipline, and long-term planning would be implemented to improve service delivery.
The new management said restoring public trust and ensuring reliable water access for Subic residents remain among its top priorities, with tangible improvements expected to become evident by the end of the year.