ABSTRACT
In 1997 the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) entered into concession agreements with Manila Water Company and Maynilad Water Services, who were allocated the eastern and western service areas of metropolitan Manila respectively after a selective bidding process. Each company had to have at least 65 per cent national ownership. The winning bidder for the eastern concession surprised everyone by bidding for a very significant reduction in price. MWSS remained as asset holding authority. By virtue of the contracts, a Regulatory Office (RO) was established to monitor the implementation of the concession agreements.
