In Barangay Oliva, a remote community in Basud, Camarines Norte, residents have long endured the daily struggle of fetching water from a well for drinking and household use. 

For 75-year-old Delia Sayno and others, a well, with its aged net cover, serves as her family’s only water source. 

Despite the potential health risks associated with consuming well water, the community has grown accustomed to relying on it due to lack of alternatives.

Sayno faces the challenge of climbing back to her home with a jug filled with well water. She collects a meager amount daily for washing, cooking, and drinking.

Wenclark Zoleta, a barangay councilman, shared that residents have been dependent on the well for generations. 

Only some can afford bottled water. 

NEW WATER SUPPLY

The discovery of a potential water source in the area has given hope to residents. 

The provincial government, in collaboration with Hanabana, a construction and equipment company, is now conducting a study on the Oliva River to establish a modern Level III Water System Facility.

The facility aims to supply water not only to Barangay Oliva but also to neighboring barangays, including those in Mercedes.

In a recent public hearing with residents, facilitated by the Barangay Oliva government and the company, the community welcomed the new water system project. 

Residents view this initiative as the answer to their long standing wishes.

Barangay Captain Wilson Gutierrez expressed his gratitude, and said that the project extends beyond Barangay Oliva. 

Bokal Pol Gache, chairman of the SP Committee on Public Utilities, clarified that the company is allowed to install facilities in areas not serviced by Primewater and Camarines Norte Water District.

Ramonito Sagocsoc, Vice President of the company, assured residents that the project's Phase I construction would commence soon, given the community's approval. 

He said that they use an environmentally friendly approach, using rocks from the Oliva River to elevate the water, preventing flooding during storms.

Residents were also reassured that the new water system would not have a minimum fee, unlike other water distribution companies.

Barangay Oliva became the first in the province for such a water system, providing a model for the Provincial Government to replicate in other towns who lack a reliable drinking water source.