SEVENTY-FIVE households in Barangay Sinuagan, Pototan, Iloilo already have access to sufficient and potable water supply through a faucet right inside their houses.

The water supply emanates from the newly-inaugurated Sinuagan Water System that was established by Governor Arthur Defensor, Sr. to address the problem on water in the area.

Defensor graced the water system’s inauguration and turnover at the Barangay Sinuagan covered gym on Friday, April 20.

Michelle Laru-an, a resident of the barangay, said prior to the establishment of the water system, they had a hard time looking for water sources especially during summer months. They had to fetch water a few kilometers away from their houses.

Defensor allotted a budget of P1,289,000 for the construction and establishment of the water system with a deep well as source.

The Sinuagan Water System Association headed by its president Marietta Saladar was formed to sustain the operation of the water system.

Saladar said the association imposes a membership fee of P300 and installation fee of P200 to those who want to connect to the waters system.

They are charging their members P180 for the minimum of five cubic meters and P10 per cubic meter for the excess consumption.

Saladar said they are looking at expanding their water system by installing additional water tank and distribution lines in order to reach more residents.

Punong Barangay Gorgonio Linterna said the water system is “a dream come true” for his people.

He noted that the Sinuagan Water System has passed the water analysis and bacteriological examination conducted by a reputable water testing laboratory in Iloilo City, thus, it was given a certificate of potability by the municipal government of Pototan.

Defensor said he understands how important water is to the lives of the people that is why the establishment of water systems especially in far-flung barangays has always been his priority.

“We have already spent millions of pesos for various water system projects all over the province and we will continue to do so until the end of my administration next year,” Defensor quipped.

The officials of Pototan led by Mayor Tomas Peñaflorida also graced the turn over ceremony attended by the residents and the barangay officials. (PR)