BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya (PIA) -- To address the need for potable water in upland agricultural communities, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has established a water system in Dupax del Norte in Nueva Vizcaya. 

The newly established community-managed potable water, sanitation, and hygiene project worth P80,000 was turned over recently to the Greeners Multipurpose Cooperative (GMPC) of which the members are Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries.

The project package includes an iron removal filter and rain-water collector, specifically chosen to aid the organization's product processing needs and assist the local government in providing basic social services to the community through the availability of potable water. 

Neil Lumauan, provincial agrarian reform officer, said the project is a part of the agency’s Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Program which aims to improve the living conditions of farmer beneficiaries and to support their agricultural ventures.

The Department of Agrarian Reform turns over the newly built water system project to Greeners Multipurpose Cooperative located in Barangay Belance, Dupax Del Norte, Nueva Vizcaya. (Photo courtesy of DAR)

He also urged cooperative members to explore possibilities beyond their ginger brew processing, expand their business ventures, and generate more income for their members using the project. 

In 2019, DAR provided GMPC with a food processing center through the Village-Level Farm-Focused Enterprise Development project which helped them achieve key requirements in food processing such as the license to operate from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“To achieve FDA approval, a sanitized and safe production line is necessary, including access to clean and safe water. This fulfills a crucial prerequisite for FDA compliance and ultimately contributes to the long-term success of the food processing center of the cooperative," Lumauan said. 

He further urged the project beneficiaries to ensure the project's sustainability and proper management. 

Lumauan also said the cost-effective technology project will serve as an inspiration to agrarian reform beneficiaries who play significant roles in community development. (OTB/BME/PIA NVizcaya)