The Pilar Village Homeowners Association Inc. has endorsed a petition filed by residents seeking the immediate replacement of alleged asbestos-cement pipes in the village's water distribution system.
Journalist Tonette Orejas, who initiated the petition, said that they were able to gather some 242 signatures including those from Infant Jesus Academy.
In a resolution signed by the Board of Directors on June 28, 2025, the association called on the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) "to take regulatory action and compel the Pilar Waterworks Corporation to begin replacing the hazardous pipes."
The resolution, titled “Endorsement of Homeowner Petition Regarding Asbestos Pipe Replacement,” cited the health and safety risks associated with the continued use of asbestos-cement materials in the water system.
The association stated that homeowners of Pilar Village in Barangay San Isidro submitted the petition after the water utility failed to meet its public commitment, made under its 2021-2030 Business Plan, to phase out asbestos-cement pipes.
The resolution warned that the failure to act puts residents at risk due to the carcinogenic nature of asbestos fibers when they enter the water supply.
The association's board also pointed to legal violations, citing the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order No. 2000-02 and Republic Act No. 6969, or the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Wastes Control Act, as being compromised by the continued use of asbestos pipes.
“[The association] strongly urges the National Water Resources Board to take immediate and decisive regulatory action to compel Pilar Waterworks Corporation to fulfill its obligation,” the resolution read.
Copies of the resolution will be forwarded to the NWRB, Pilar Waterworks Corporation, and other government agencies, according to the document signed by association's members of the board.
President Jorge A. Mogol, vice president Loida M. Basilio have yet to sign the document.