In a decisive move addressing long-standing water service issues, San Fernando Mayor Vilma Caluag has taken firm action against the city's private water provider.
Executive Order Halts PrimeWater Operations
On Monday, November 17, 2025, Mayor Vilma Caluag officially issued an executive order that suspends the mayor's permit of PrimeWater in the City of San Fernando. This suspension effectively halts the firm's authority to operate within the city's water distribution system.
The mayor's directive means that the crucial task of providing water to Fernandino households and businesses will be immediately handed back to its original operator. Starting Monday, the operations of the water utility were officially returned to the City of San Fernando Water District.
Mayor's Social Media Address to Constituents
To explain this significant decision directly to the public, Mayor Caluag released a recorded statement on her official social media channels. Addressing her constituents as "Mga minamaghal kong Fernandino," she expressed deep understanding of the burden they have carried.
"Alam ko na matagal na ninyong pasan ang bigat ng problemang ito," Caluag stated, acknowledging the prolonged nature of the water problem. She firmly positioned her role as the city's chief executive, stating, "At bilang inyong punong lungsod, tungkulin kong maging tinig ng inyong mga hinaing at tagapagtanggol ng inyong kapakanan na harapin at resolbahin ang anumang usapin na nakakaapekto sa inyong pang-araw araw na Buhay."
Highlighting her administration's approach to governance, the mayor claimed a reputation for swift and concrete actions, suggesting this permit suspension is a direct manifestation of that governing philosophy.
Implications for San Fernando Residents
The immediate transfer of water operations back to the City of San Fernando Water District marks a pivotal moment for the city's public utility management. This move is expected to directly impact the daily lives of all residents, promising a shift in how a fundamental resource is managed and delivered.
By reclaiming control of the water utility, the local government aims to provide a more direct and accountable service to the community, addressing the concerns that prompted this major administrative change.
