Water utility price increases reported in Dominican Republic and Ecuador

Political figures in the Dominican Republic and Ecuador have raised concerns regarding significant increases in water service costs.

In Piedra Blanca, Monseñor Nouel, political leader Donato Pérez denounced a reported price hike for water jugs, which allegedly rose from RD$50 to RD$100. Pérez described the 100 percent increase as unjustified and a heavy economic burden on low-income families, warning that high costs could lead to increased health risks if citizens cannot access safe water.

In Pastaza, Ecuador, mayoral candidate Marco Andino of the Pachakutik movement has proposed a review of drinking water tariffs in Puyo. Andino claimed that some household bills have increased by more than 300 percent. He argued for modifying the local ordinance regulating these charges to ensure that municipal priorities focus on service provision rather than the profitability of public companies.