Renote school in Surigao Norte receives potable water system
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte -- Gacepan Elementary School in Barangay Gacepan, Sison, Surigao del Norte recently received the climate resilient sustainable powered potable water system.
This initiative, which aims to secure clean and sustainable water access, was funded by the New Zealand Embassy in partnership with the United Nations Children's Fund's (UNICEF) program on WASH (water, sanitationn and hygiene) and the Agency for Technical Cooperation and Development (ACTED).
The event was attended by representatives from National Commission on Indegenous Peoples (NCIP) Surigao del Norte and the Mamanwa Indigenous People of Barangay Gacepan, led by Tribal Chieftain Dakula Joenil B. Masana
The inclusion of the NCIP representative and the Mamanwa community emphasized the importance of respecting indigenous cultures and ensuring that the water solutions implemented are culturally appropriate.
Tribal Chieftain Dakula Joenil, thanked all the agencies involved for the collaborative efforts in ensuring that Mamanwa's school children can access safe and potable drinking water.
The newly commissioned water system utilizes sustainable energy sources to pump, treat, and distribute safe drinking water, providing a reliable supply that is resilient to the increasing challenges posed by climate change.
This innovative approach not only ensures access to clean water but also minimizes environmental impact by leveraging renewable energy technologies.
The event was also attended by Catherine McIntosh, New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines, along with UNICEF representatives led by Maya Fachrani Faisal, and ACTED personnel supervised by Joey M. Cabilao. Local dignitaries included Karissa R. Fetalvero-Paronia, the municipal mayor of Sison, and Punong Barangay Nelger S. Saladu.
Also, key representatives from national agencies such as the Department of Education and the Department of Health were also present, highlighting the collaborative effort to secure sustainable clean water for the community. (NCIP- Surigao del Norte/PIA Surigao del Norte)
