President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) to launch a deeper probe into the lack of stable water supply in public schools, following his ‘Brigada Eskwela’ activities in Malolos and San Miguel, Bulacan on Monday.
The Chief Executive expressed serious concern over the poor condition of basic facilities, particularly the absence of clean water and functioning bathrooms in public schools, highlighting its impact on student health and dignity.
“This is not just a minor inconvenience; it’s a matter of hygiene, health, and dignity for our students,” said Palace Press Officer Claire Castro during a Malacañang press briefing on Tuesday. “How can students study properly if their schools lack basic services?”
President Marcos has given LWUA 48 hours to submit an initial report identifying the cause of the water supply failures, determining who is responsible, and proposing immediate measures to restore services before classes start next week.
“The President’s directive is clear: LWUA must conduct an immediate investigation,” Castro emphasized. “Who is accountable? And how can this be resolved before classes resume next week?”
LWUA, a government-owned and controlled corporation, oversees water systems in cities and municipalities outside Metro Manila. The Palace underscored the urgency of the matter, noting that access to water and sanitation is essential for quality education.
“It is our responsibility to ensure that schools have proper facilities, adequate support for teachers, and functioning systems. That’s the foundation of a safe and effective education,” Castro said. “In the end, our goal is peace of mind for every parent.”