Book Chapter in the Book: THE ECONOMIES OF VIOLENCE
It is small-scale providers that sell water to urban poor communities in Metro Manila. The quality may be substandard, supply irregular, and prices higher than those purchasing water directly from private concessionaires. The threat of physical violence in cases like Alan and his competitors, or financial losses for communities as they spend substantial portions of their incomes on water are significant aspects. In urban settlements in Metro Manila, Cathy, Michael, and Alan and his competitors may be referred to as ‘syndicates’. Unlike cooperatives, which are endorsed by Maynilad and Manila Water—private concessionaires responsible for water provision, and the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (mwss), the government institution responsible for oversight—syndicates are deemed to operate illegally.
