The municipal government of Pinamalayan in Oriental Mindoro has signed a public-private partnership agreement on Friday with Ilustris Negotium Inc. to deliver clean water infrastructure, with former Department of Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi representing the private firm.

Mayor Aristeo “Aris” Baldos Jr. and Vice Mayor Rodel Magsino led the local government during the ceremonial signing which will address long-standing water access issues in the municipality.

The partnership is expected to modernize water distribution infrastructure and improve service coverage across households where water clarity and availability have been seasonal challenges, particularly during rainy months when turbidity affects supply quality, LGU Pinamalayan said.

Cusi’s company is expected to bring technical expertise and infrastructure investments to upgrade the town’s water supply system.

The project will begin with infrastructure audits and feasibility studies before full-scale implementation later this year.

Access to safe drinking water remains problematic across parts of Oriental Mindoro despite ongoing works by local water districts.

The Pinamalayan Water District treats and distributes water according to safety standards, but natural factors like seasonal turbidity and aging infrastructure can compromise quality.

Recent interventions by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) MIMAROPA have improved access for nearly 20,000 residents across the province through solar-powered water pumping, desalination, and purification systems.

In Maasin Island in Bulalacao municipality, a DOST-installed desalination unit reduced salt levels from 2,600 parts per million to just 3-4 ppm, delivering potable water to over 200 households.

Other municipalities like Puerto Galera have successfully implemented waterworks projects benefiting thousands of consumers and supporting local agriculture and commerce.

However, financial constraints continue to limit system reach, especially in geographically isolated areas.

The Department of Health and Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) have prioritized water safety monitoring and infrastructure investment, particularly in disaster-prone provinces like Oriental Mindoro.

Photo: courtesy of LGU Pinamalayan