kaban galing - front cover - galing pook

three pumps, artesian wells were installed in depressed areas where
residents could not afford to pay even the minimal water charge. An
influx of immigrants wishing to avail themselves of the cheap potable
water caused a sharp increase in population (from 7,323 in 1995 to
10,961 in 2000).
Centralized control of the water service helped to ensure that the
acquifers of the community would not be depleted due to indiscriminate
digging of artesian wells. At the same time, deliberate efforts to prevent
sea water from contaminating the community’s aquifers were done
through tree planting.
Due to the centralized system the quality of water is protected, and
in turn the health of the residents. Centralizing the system also ensured
sufficient supply of water for the residents. Especially benefited were
the mothers who now have more time for other productive ventures. As
housekeepers, women are the most inconvenienced by absence, or
insufficient supply, of water.
The rehabilitated water system also served as a catalyst to spur
further development in the barangay. Through the profits of the water
system a high school makeshift building was constructed, as well as 12
makeshift classrooms. A temporary day care center was also erected.
Street lighting of the barangay was also funded from proceeds of the
water system.
Through the establishment of a non-stock, non-profit corporation
composed of the residents and barangay officials, a lot of bureaucratic
red tape usually associated with infrastructure development was
eliminated. The waterworks management is now able to respond
immediately to both minor and major repairs.
A particularly significant strength is the fact that the project was able
to unite the community and make every resident responsible and
accountable for the success of the system. In addition to the impact on
health, positive impact on peace and order has also been reaped and
recognized.
Benefits are Flowing
The community based approach adopted by the first managers of the
waterworks program was also adopted by the new managers to ensure
adequate level of participation by the residents in the management of
the waterworks system.
Rebuilt and Flowing 115