₱38-MILLION WATER AND ROAD PROJECTS TO BENEFIT MANOBO COMMUNITIES IN SURIGAO

A ₱38-million rural infrastructure package will provide clean water and improved road access to Manobo communities in Barangay Umalag, San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, following an agreement signed on October 29. The ₱6-million water system will serve 160 households or 800 residents through 26 tap stands, helping reduce waterborne illnesses and household expenses. Meanwhile, the ₱31.6-million concreting of a 2.4-kilometer farm-to-market road is expected to benefit 1,348 indigenous residents. The road will connect farming communities to trading hubs and serve around 900 hectares planted with abaca, coconut, banana, and corn. The projects involve the Department of Agriculture, North Eastern Mindanao State University, and the San Miguel municipal government, with construction coordination aimed at protecting the interests of indigenous communities.