Human right vs. Economic good: a comparative study on government and private water utilities

Abstract

Water is as important as the air we breathe because it is essential for the survival of humanity.There is no life without water. Some political groups aver that water is also an economic good that is in need of a ‘wiser' use and management through the help of private corporation's expertise. However, more than this, the researcher asserts that the right to water is an extension of the basic human right to life. Water should never be a commodity because every Filipino should have a quality, accessible and affordable water supply that is publicly provided and managed. Since SB 2997 or Water Sector Reform Act is a posing threat of globalization through privatization of water districts by engaging in Public-Private Partnerships, the researcher aimed to provide a comparison of the viability and efficiency of government-owned and private-run water utilities from the perspective of its consumers through satisfaction ratings in the survey questionnaire used and focused group discussions done. The results showed that the San Pablo City Water District offers more cost-effective, professional and efficient water provision and facilities compared to SUBICWATER, a private utility.There should be a framework or policy in the water sector that is pro-people in paradigm without the intervention of private corporations because water should be provided and protected by the state by all means. Ensuring access to water for all, especially the poor and marginalized is government's obligation and no other else's. It is only the government which has an effective and full capacity to provide water for each and every Filipino through efficient collection of taxes.