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Water is a basic necessity—but for families in Purok Mangga, Barangay Lusong, Tuburan, Cebu, it was a luxury. Mothers, fathers, and even children must trek for 30 to 40 minutes just to fetch just a few liters from a distant spring.

Construction of Level II Water System in Barangay Lusong, Tuburan, Cebu. The image captures a powerful moment – a mother using the newly installed water source to bathe her child, a simple yet profound symbol of how access to water transforms lives.

It had been their reality for decades.

The completion of the water system subproject from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) program, under the Phase 2 of the Additional Financing (AF) Modality, has positively transformed the lives of families in disadvantaged communities. This Philippine government initiative aims to reduce poverty and enhance the quality of life for these communities.

They were overjoyed and relieved, as they no longer had to endure the backbreaking task of collecting water from afar. The once-quaint community, nestled atop a hill, now boasts a reliable water system, bringing clean water to their doorsteps.

For 42-year-old resident Mrs. Juverle Pagligaran, this marked a milestone.

“For the first time in my life, I have access to clean water right at my doorstep,” she said, her eyes shining with gratitude.

The family of Franklen and Manilyn Pagligaran, who planned to relocate to the town below due to water scarcity, decided to stay after the sub-project completion. They were thrilled to have water readily available, eliminating the need to leave their beloved community.

“Sa wala pa ning sub-project sa KALAHI nga patubig, nagplano na g’yud mi sa akong asawa nga mobalhin sa ubos kay gikapoy na g’yud mi sige hakot og tubig (Before the KALAHI water system sub-project, my wife and I had already planned to move downhill because we were really exhausted of constantly hauling water),” said Franklen.

The impact of this sub-project extends far beyond mere convenience.

With access to clean water, residents can now focus on education, livelihood, and community development.

Children can attend school free from the burden of water collection, while adults can pursue economic opportunities, knowing their basic needs are met.

Water is not just necessary – it is a source of health, convenience, and a better future.

This sub-project is a testament to how essential water is to life and how something so simple can bring immense relief and joy to a community. ###

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