LILOAN, CEBU — Residents of the mountain barangay of Mulao are set to gain access to a more reliable water supply as the Cebu Provincial Government begins construction of a Level III water system designed to serve households in the community.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro led the groundbreaking on August 18 for the Mulao Level III Water Supply System Phase I, a project aimed at addressing the barangay’s long-standing water supply concerns.
The provincial government has allocated an initial ₱1.2 million for the first phase of the project, which involves drilling at the identified water source located about 105 meters above sea level.
Water source damaged by Typhoon Tino
The project is particularly important for Mulao residents whose previous water source was damaged by Typhoon Tino last year.
The barangay previously sourced its water from the Tuhob section of the Cotcot River, but the facility was destroyed during the typhoon.
Since then, residents have had to purchase water from private vendors while also searching for small springs along the river system to supplement their supply.
Barangay Health Worker Richel Naval said the new system would provide significant relief to families who have been spending money and time securing water.
“Dako gyud nig matabang kay dili nami magbayad sa binaril, unya mas maka-save. Dili na pod mi ingon maglakaw og layo, mangitag tubig, kay naa naman siya sa balay gyud,” Naval said.
Naval said private vendors currently sell water for around ₱200 per barrel, placing an additional burden on households.
With the new system, residents are expected to have easier access to water directly in their homes.
Level III system to serve households
A Level III water supply system is a piped public water network that includes a water source, storage reservoir, distribution system, adequate water treatment facility and individual household connections.
The planned system is therefore expected to provide a more stable and convenient source of water compared with the community’s current dependence on purchased water and small springs.
For Mulao residents, reliable water access is needed not only for drinking and household activities but also for livelihood.
Naval said several residents raise hogs as a source of income, making a dependable water supply particularly important for livestock production.
Basic need for the community
Naval expressed appreciation to Gov. Baricuatro and the provincial government for prioritizing the project, emphasizing that access to water is a basic necessity.
The construction of the water system forms part of the provincial government’s continuing efforts to address infrastructure and basic service needs in communities across Cebu, including mountain barangays that face additional challenges because of their location.
The project is also expected to help reduce the burden on families who have had to spend more for water following the destruction of their previous source.
Once completed, the Mulao Level III Water Supply System is expected to provide residents with a more dependable water source while supporting household needs and local livelihoods.
Joining Gov. Baricuatro during the groundbreaking were Fifth District Board Member Mike Villamor, Provincial Administrator Atty. Ace Durano, and Mulao Barangay Captain Jonas Azarcon Jr.
