MANILA, June 5 -- Metro Pacific Water (MPW), a subsidiary of the Manny V. Pangilinan-led Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC), has taken over the interim operation of San Jose del Monte City's water distribution system as local authorities scramble to address a worsening water crisis that has left thousands of households struggling with unreliable supply.

The city government made the announcement Friday as MPW inspects key facilities and starts transition activities aimed at restoring reliable water service to thousands of affected households across the city.

The move effectively sidelines the Villar family's PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp., which has been under mounting public scrutiny for persistent service problems and is currentl...