THE Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System Regulatory Office (MWSS RO) said that they are investigating a surge in customer complaints on social media regarding the reported poor aesthetic quality (yellowish color) of water supplied by Maynilad Water Services Inc. (Maynilad).

“The MWSS RO is currently investigating the issue and coordinating with Maynilad to identify the root cause of the irregularity and implement any necessary corrective actions,” they said in a statement.

The MWSS RO advised customers who are experiencing the problem, to let the water flow until it becomes clear. 

Customers may collect and store the discolored water for non-potable uses, like flushing toilets.

“The MWSS RO assures affected customers that their health and safety are prioritized as the Office investigates the matter. It will remain committed to protecting consumer interest and welfare,” they said. 

Meanwhile, Maynilad said that the yellowish water observed in some of its service areas this week was "not harmful."

The discoloration was due to a spike in manganese in the raw water passing through the low level outlet of Angat Dam on Thursday.

"Nagkaroon lamang po ng sudden surge ng level ng manganese na pumasok… ‘Pag nag-react [yun] sa chlorine na ginagamit natin bilang disinfectant, ito po ay nagko-cause ng discoloration doon sa tubig sa aming sistema," Maynilad water supply operations head Ronald Padua said. 

The yellowish water was still compliant to Philippine standards, he said. 

"Hindi naman po talaga siya harmful. Nagkataon po talaga siyempre, aesthetically hindi magandang tingnan, may kulay kasi yung tubig kaya medyo asiwa talaga na ma-consume siya ng mga tao," Padua added in an interview over TeleRadyo Serbisyo.