Tabuk City, Kalinga – After years of waiting and overcoming numerous challenges, the residents of Sotto, Agbannawag, can now enjoy safe and reliable water from their newly constructed submersible pump water system, which was officially turned over to the community on July 30, 2025.
Gallons on pile to fetch water from the deep well with limited water supply.
The water system is now under the care and management of the Sotto Community Farmers Association (SCFA), their local people’s organization.
Checking the flow: a resident examines the water splitter of the new system.
A Journey Marked by Challenges
The project began in October 2023, but its completion was far from easy. The first contractor, tasked with drilling, withdrew just a month after beginning work due to the site’s challenging terrain. The provincial team and staff had to search extensively, even outside Kalinga, to find another driller with more advanced equipment.
In April 2024, a second contractor attempted drilling at a nearby site. However, recurring problems—such as the absence of underground water and the lack of commitment from the driller—once again stalled the project.
Despite these setbacks, the community and project staff pressed on with hope and determination. Finally, in March 2025, a third contractor from Quezon, Isabela, took on the project. Within a month, clean water gushed from the ground, creating immense joy and relief among the community.
A long-awaited moment: the water system finally pours out a steady flow for the community.
Community Effort and Indigenous Practices
Motivated by the long-awaited success, the residents immediately began constructing tanks and laying pipelines. Through the spirit of “angkas” or “bayanihan”—an indigenous self-help practice where community members volunteer their labor—the elevated concrete reservoir and pipelines were completed within two months.
Completed water splitter with respective water guage to measure water consumption per household.
Community Contribution and Celebration
In gratitude, the beneficiaries organized a solicitation drive with support from local officials, raising ₱20,000. This, combined with counterpart support from CorDisRDS, was used to buy a carabao for the traditional “songa”, a communal feast during the turnover and inauguration.
One woman shared during the turnover ceremony:
“We no longer have to fetch rainwater, which is unsafe. We also don’t need to go to the irrigation canal to wash clothes or fetch water when building houses.”
A man humorously added that now, their wives would always be “clean and fragrant.”
The community gathered in unity to celebrate the inauguration and turnover of their long-awaited water works.
Lasting Impact
Today, the water system benefits at least 52 households. Beyond providing safe drinking water, it also supports backyard gardening and livestock raising, giving families opportunities for healthier lives and sustainable livelihoods.
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