TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) -- Every drop of water counts no more to three public elementary schools in Cagayan province after the Rotary Club of Tuguegarao Rainbow (RCTR) turned over the three water systems through the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs of Rotary International, recently.

More than 300 learners from Abolo, Carallangan, and Nanguilattan Elementary Schools in Amulung, Alcala, and Peñablanca, respectively, benefited the water systems.

President Jun Frederick F. Chua of RC Tuguegarao Rainbow said the projects aimed to meet the needs of public schools that do not have a water system and to avoid water-borne diseases.

“We will ensure everyone that we will always continue to provide opportunities that create lasting change in the lives of the beneficiaries, advancing the mutual goals of Rotary,” President Chua said.

He said RC Tuguegarao Rainbow is committed to building high-impact projects that will deliver a resilient community, truly demonstrating the Rotary’s four-way test and what it means to put the Rotary motto "Service Above Self, as the club will embark again on another three water system projects.

He said that, to date, the club has already constructed 17 Water Systems in various parts of the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela and now has access to safe drinking water.

“Again, to our sister club, Cheongju Leaders Rotary e-Club of South Korea, led by President Yun Yonghoon, it is really our privilege to partner with your club, which is eager to serve the disadvantaged sector in our country,” Chua said.

“It is an honor and privilege for all of us at the Rotary Club of Tuguegarao Rainbow to have served as your sister club in the Philippines, bringing numerous benefits through the Rotary Foundation's global grants,” he added.

Meanwhile, Rotarian Kim Myongsoon of the Cheongju Leaders Rotary e-Club of South Korea expressed his gratitude to the RC Tuguegarao Rainbow for its accomplishments and partnership in building water systems in various rural areas in the region.

On the other hand, Public Schools District Supervisor Jose Accorda expressed his appreciation to the RC Tuguegarao Rainbow for providing said water system, thus improving the lives of the students and families.

“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the Rotarians, whose tireless dedication and unwavering support have been instrumental in making this project a reality. Your organization's commitment to service above self is exemplified in every drop of water that now flows through our schools, ensuring that our students have access to clean and safe drinking water,” Accorda said.

He said that access to clean water and proper sanitation is not merely a convenience but a fundamental prerequisite for a conducive learning environment.

“We have not only addressed an immediate need but also laid the foundation for future endeavors aimed at enhancing the quality of education and life within our community,” Accorda said. (ADS/PIA Region 2)