Written by: Anna Kamille Miranda
Nineteen kilometers away from the nearest highway, across a river, through ranges and rough roads, sitting on a mountain top is Sitio Gilun in Marilog district, Davao del Sur. Getting there is not easy. But ABS-CBN Foundation, Fujitsu Japan, together with other stakeholders made the impossible happen and turned over a solar-powered water supply system to the community.
Instead of having to fetch water from a faraway and hazardous location, the residents of Sitio Gilun now have easy access to clean and safe drinking water. The project will benefit 63 households in the sitio and around 66 children enrolled at Gilun Elementary School.
Rizal Pascual, a Project Manager of ABS-CBN Foundation, shared his primary consideration in finding a contractor. Since roads to Marilog were rough, the project required a contractor with a heart for service – someone who would go the extra mile and take on the challenging venture for the community.
Thankfully, a Davao-based contractor specializing in water and irrigation systems accepted the project. Through Metro Davao Supreme Pump Industries led by Engr. Arturo I. Davis, who worked for four months on the implementation and construction of the project, there is finally a functioning solar-powered water supply system in Sitio Gilun.
Present at the turnover were officers and members of the Philippine Army who assisted in the difficult task of hauling materials to the project site. On behalf of Brigadier General Marion T. Angcao, MNSA, PA, Brigade Commander of 1003rd Brigade, the ceremony was attended by Major Rudini C. Burador, Battalion Executive Officer of 27IB, 10ID. The Philippine Army ensured peace and order throughout the completion of the project.
Finally, students will no longer come to school thirsty. Students for the coming school year will benefit from this accessible drinking water,” said Noemi Amandoron, School Head of Sitio Gilun Elementary School. She hopes that this project will spark inspiration among the students. This can serve as a reminder that Gilun Elementary School can also produce graduates, who, in true Kapamilya fashion, may also help the community in the future.