A LOCAL consumer's group is mulling legal action after they received an answer from the Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa) over the proposed joint venture with PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation.

Waterwatch-Bacolod and labor leader Wennie Sancho, said he is not convinced over Baciwa's explanations as to why they cannot give the details claiming they are following a "rule of confidentiality" from the guidelines of the National Economic and Development Authority.

Sancho pointed out it is the right of every consumer to know whatever updates that are coming from the local water utilities provider.

The local labor said they, along with various stakeholders and the Diocese of Bacolod Social Action Center are planning legal action against Baciwa for its refusal to give the details they were asking.

Sancho had earlier repeatedly sent letters to the Baciwa Board but they were repeatedly ignored.

While acknowledging the two public hearings held on the matter, he pointed out, the Baciwa board failed to attend either meeting.

Sancho added, their organization is only seeking clarification, expressing fears the joint venture “looks like privatization.” He claimed, if privatized, consumers will be assessed an additional value-added tax, which will increase rates by 12 percent.

Bacolod City Councilor Wilson Gamboa, Jr., meanwhile, lambasted Baciwa during a privilege speech before the Sangguniang Panlungsod and called on the Baciwa board to “exercise public transparency and accountability” and called for consultations.