By: Elmer Jason A. Valencia
Carmen, Davao Del Norte – South Balibago Resources Inc. (SBRI), a subsidiary of Balibago Waterworks System, Inc. (BWSI), inaugurated its 1.5 million liters per day (MLD) Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and Level III Water Supply System in Brgy. Ising, Carmen, Davao Del Norte on February 3, 2025. This milestone aims to provide clean, safe, and potable drinking water to the residents of Carmen.
The event was led by BWSI and SBRI President Criselle P. Alejandro, alongside the following attendees:
VP for Operations Jonathan R. Raymundo,
VP for Engineering Engr. Ponciano T. Cruz,
AVP for Digital Transformation Elizer R. Nacpil, and
Area Manager Engr. Julimel Q. Gabriel.
Local Government Unit (LGU) officials:
Mayor Leonidas R. Bahague,
Vice Mayor Marchell J. Perandos,
Sanggunian Bayan Members,
Barangay Captain Francis Castilla, and
Barangay Councilors, also graced the occasion, expressing their strong support for the project.
For years, the Municipality of Carmen struggled with an inadequate potable water supply, relying on rainwater collection and dug wells known as "balon." This issue became more severe during the dry season. Recognizing the need for a sustainable solution, SBRI conceptualized the Carmen branch in 2021. However, the project was delayed due to the pandemic. After more than two years of planning and coordination with the LGU, construction began in June 2024. By December 20, 2024, the plant was successfully tested and commissioned, witnessed by representatives from the LGU and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Carmen.
The newly established water treatment facility integrates advanced technology to process surface water from the Anibongan Creek, ensuring a safe and reliable water supply.
Initially, the project will benefit approximately 2,965 households and 12,426 individuals in Brgy. Ising.
During the inauguration, Mayor Bahague and Vice Mayor Perandos expressed their gratitude to SBRI for addressing the community’s long-standing water concerns. They emphasized the LGU’s commitment to supporting future infrastructure projects and acknowledged the significant contribution of this development in attracting more investors and fostering economic growth in Carmen.
The ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting, facility blessing, and a drinking ceremony to mark the plant's official opening. Local officials and residents celebrated the achievement, viewing it as a step toward a more sustainable and developed municipality.
Looking ahead, SBRI plans to expand its services to other feasible barangays within Carmen, further strengthening its commitment to providing essential water services to underserved communities.
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