Forging Partnership for Potable Water System Development

In 2021, Assisi Development Foundation (ADF) was introduced to us through an orientation meeting with our local chief executive, department heads, and local partners. During the meeting, we learned that ADF is a social development organization focused on supporting poor and vulnerable communities, especially Indigenous Peoples (IPs).

Before ADF’s involvement, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Madalag did not have any specific programs or projects for IP communities, and the barangays had not received targeted interventions for IPs. Through a collaborative partnership, particularly under the Partnership for Indigenous Peoples Program, ADF has provided invaluable support. This partnership has led to various activities that have contributed significantly to building a sustainable, resilient community of empowered, self-reliant, and knowledgeable IPs.

One of ADF’s most impactful projects in the IP communities is the Water System Project. With ADF’s support, new potable water systems were installed in Barangay Ditana and Barangay Ma. Cristina. ADF provided all the materials and covered the expenses, while the LGU facilitated coordination, technical assistance, and the transportation of materials from the Poblacion to the recipient barangays.

Access to water is crucial for any community, yet the LGU has limited funds to provide. That is why the LGU of Madalag is deeply grateful for ADF’s Water System Project, which has enabled many IP families to access clean, potable water. This project has made daily tasks easier and significantly improved the quality of people’s lives. Prior to the water system’s implementation, families had to fetch water from distant sources, a tiring, time-consuming, and health-risking endeavor. Thanks to ADF, clean and accessible water is now readily available, saving families time, effort, and energy.

Despite its success, the project faced several challenges, including long distances and unpaved roads that made transporting materials difficult, as well as unpredictable weather that affected construction efficiency. However, ADF had earlier instilled values like camaraderie, cooperation, and hard work in local partners, which were essential for overcoming these obstacles. The communities also demonstrated patience, perseverance, dedication, and a strong desire to help, ensuring the smooth and efficient implementation of the project.

We are profoundly grateful to ADF for its significant contribution to the growth of our communities. The LGU of Madalag, along with our partner barangays, IPs, and other stakeholders, will forever appreciate all your support and assistance. We look forward to continuing our collaboration, sharing our common goals, and working towards the development of poor and vulnerable communities. May ADF continue to be a blessing to all, and we wish you more success in your endeavors. God bless ADF and the team!