Written By: Genephine G. Caraca | Photos By: Genephine G. Caraca & Engr. Mohammad S. Ungad
May 18–21, 2026 | To ensure effective project implementation, DILG Region IX, through its Project Development and Management Unit (PDMU), conducted final inspection activities for FY 2023 Local Government Support Fund – Growth Equity Fund (LGSF-GEF) water system projects in the municipalities of Sirawai, Siayan, and Jose Dalman, Zamboanga del Norte.
The inspection team was composed of Regional LGSF-GEF Focal/Engr. III Mohammad S. Ungad and PEO II Genephine G. Caraca, together with Provincial LGSF-GEF Focals Engr. II Jowee E. Salaveria and Engr. II Ian S. Signar, alongside MLGOO Fatma S. Apuaca-Hamin of Sirawai, MLGOO Charity D. Serenio of Siayan, MLGOO Johnmark J. Ruiz of Jose Dalman, and concerned LGU functionaries.
Projects Inspected:
✅ Construction of Water System Level II in Sirawai, with a national allocation of Php 1,000,000.00
✅ Expansion of Poblacion Potable Water System (Gravity Type) in Siayan, with a national allocation of Php 12,857,143.00
✅ Construction of Water Supply System Level III – Improvement/Rehabilitation of Water Supply System in Jose Dalman, with a national allocation of Php 12,857,143.00
The activity aimed to validate project completion, assess compliance with approved plans and technical specifications, and ensure readiness for turnover and operation.
Site inspections, interviews, and document review were conducted to verify project status, assess project impact on beneficiary communities, and ensure compliance with program requirements. Minor findings noted during inspection were discussed with the concerned LGUs for appropriate action prior to project turnover.
Assistance on SubayBAYAN compliance was also provided to the concerned LGUs to ensure timely updating and submission of project information and documentary requirements.
One resident, 24-year-old Desiree P. Pal-ing of Barangay Tamil, Jose Dalman, shared how the project significantly improved their daily life and access to safe water:
“Nalipay mi kay nagaan among trabaho, magkabo pami sauna, mag sayo, pun.on ang mga drum karon nagpaabot nalang mi sa tubig muagas sa gripo. Sauna naka experience mi ug amoeba, amo nalang gina init ang tubig gikan sa bomba. As of now, wala nay na experience nga magsakit among tiyan sukad nga naa ning water project.”
“We are happy because our daily work became easier. Before, we had to fetch water early in the morning and fill drums. Now, we only wait for water to flow from the faucet. Before, we experienced amoeba, so we had to boil water from the pump. As of now, no one has experienced stomach pain since this water project was established.”
Through these projects, communities are expected to benefit from improved access to safe and reliable water supply, contributing to better sanitation, public health, and daily convenience.
DILG Region IX continues to promote quality infrastructure implementation and strengthen local service delivery through sustainable and responsive development projects.
