Bukidnon, Philippines – The turnover of a newly completed water system project in Barangay Kisolon, Sumilao, and a farm-to-market road in Barangay Pinatilan, Valencia, on Friday marked a significant milestone for local farmers, promising improved irrigation and better market access.
The projects, funded under the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) Kapangyarihan at Kaunlaran sa Barangay (KKB) modality, aim to enhance agricultural productivity and uplift the economic conditions of the beneficiaries.
“Grabe jud ni nga experience, dili lang kini ordinary nga project; first time in history sa Pinatilan, busa dako among pasalamat nga napili among barangay. Naka tatak na ni sa among kasing-kasing,” expressed Edna Alesna, an official from Barangay Pinatilan, highlighting the impact of the road project on their community.
During her speech in Barangay Pinatilan, Atty. Bernadette Mapue-Joaquin, National Program Manager of KALAHI-CIDSS, called on residents to support the program. She emphasized its ongoing institutionalization efforts, which aim to improve infrastructure project allocation and delivery, ensuring better access to essential services.
Kisolon Punong Barangay Atty. Veronica Vera Soccoro V. Lumantas also underscored the significance of KALAHI-CIDSS support, noting that their barangay has limited resources and that the assistance provided is a substantial boon to their development efforts.
The series of turnover activities were attended by officials from the KALAHI-CIDSS National Program Management Office, as well as staff and officials from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office X, led by Director Ramel F. Jamen. Senator Imee R. Marcos graced the event as the guest of honor.
Senator Marcos, a staunch advocate for KALAHI-CIDSS, reaffirmed her commitment to the program’s mission of empowering communities to identify and implement priority projects that address their most urgent needs. In her speech, she emphasized the importance of sustainability and proper maintenance to ensure that future generations continue to benefit from these developments.
With these newly completed projects, farmers and residents of Barangay Kisolon and Barangay Pinatilan can look forward to better irrigation, enhanced mobility, and greater economic opportunities, reinforcing the local government’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
