Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri led the groundbreaking of the second phase of Kabankalan City’s P150-million water system upgrade, on Monday, July 1, launching a P100-million expansion aimed at improving access to safe and reliable water for thousands of residents.
The new funding builds on the initial P50-million phase launched over a year ago. Zubiri earlier identified the high cost of water as a major factor hindering local development, which prompted him to push for the city’s water district rehabilitation and waterline improvement.
He recognized Kabankalan as one of the largest beneficiaries of his programs in Negros Occidental, following his support for cultural projects such as the museum and theater in Bacolod City.
Zubiri also acknowledged his connection to the city, recalling that his father, former Bukidnon Governor Jose Zubiri Jr., was born in Barangay Talubangi on August 11, 1940.
Meanwhile, Kabankalan City Mayor Benjie Miranda welcomed the senator’s continued support and thanked other key officials involved in the project.
He said the upgraded water system would greatly benefit city constituents who have long faced challenges in accessing potable and sufficient water supply.
Angelika Alvarez, who represented her aunt, 6th District Representative Mercedes Alvarez, emphasized the project’s role in strengthening public health, sanitation, and sustainable development.
She noted that access to clean water plays a vital role in building healthier and more resilient communities, especially in the face of global challenges in water security.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, contributes to Negros Daily Bulletin, and maintains a blog on Medium.