TACLOBAN CITY – To help address persistent water supply challenges across Northern Samar, Mindanao-based Hanabana Water Supply Corporation has conducted site inspections and coordination meetings in eight municipalities as part of a potential partnership for localized water development initiatives.
The company’s assessment covered three clusters: Laoang, Catubig, and Palapag in the Pacific Area; Catarman, Bobon, and Mondragon in the Central Area; and Allen and Victoria in the Balicuatro Area.
Among the areas visited, Laoang was found to be the most in need, with its local water district declared non-functional. The local government unit has since taken over water services but currently supplies only around 400 households. To address the shortfall, officials are considering sourcing water from neighboring towns such as Palapag or Las Navas.
In the Central Area, Catarman’s water district is currently undergoing improvements to its filtration and distribution systems following persistent service issues.
Meanwhile, the towns of Bobon and Mondragon—though not facing immediate shortages—expressed strong interest in collaboration due to rising demand, population growth, and concerns over dwindling water sources.
In the Balicuatro Area, the municipalities of Allen and Victoria also welcomed the possibility of partnering with Hanabana, citing the region’s expected surge in commercial and business development.
Hanabana is scheduled to return in August to present formal, site-specific proposals based on further feasibility studies and technical assessments. To support the development of these proposals, the company has requested the submission of GPS coordinates, photographs, and videos of potential water sources from the involved LGUs.
The Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office has pledged its support for the initiative, underscoring the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in advancing local development, public health, and economic resilience.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
