Five public elementary schools in remote areas of Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental have been equipped with rainwater harvesting systems to help address water needs while promoting sanitation, environmental awareness, and climate resilience.
The initiative is part of the Bridging Rural Infrastructure Development for Growth and Empowerment (BRIDGE) Project, a joint effort of Central Philippines State University (CPSU) and the Philippine Red Cross (PRC)-Negros Occidental Bacolod City Chapter.
Bringing Water Closer to Remote Schools
The facilities were formally turned over on Aug. 14 to the CPSU Agricultural Extension Outreach Program-Farmers’ Village Training Center Elementary School, NOAC Elementary School, Nabung-an Elementary School, President Osmeña Elementary School, and Tagukon Elementary School.
The project is expected to benefit about 800 pupils.
CPSU President Dr. Aladino Moraca and PRC-Negros Occidental Bacolod City Chapter Administrator Rita Benita Mirasol led the signing of agreements and turnover ceremony, joined by Department of Education Schools Division Superintendent Ferdinand Sy.
The rainwater systems will support the schools’ implementation of the DepEd Water, Sanitation and Hygiene in Schools program, giving students another source of water for daily school needs.
Supporting Health and Climate Resilience
The BRIDGE Project goes beyond installing infrastructure. It also seeks to promote responsible water use and help schools prepare for the effects of climate-related challenges.
CPSU said the initiative contributes to global goals on health, clean water, sanitation, and sustainable communities by improving water access and hygiene practices.
“Through rainwater harvesting, we turn a natural resource into an opportunity, conserving water today while preparing schools and communities for tomorrow,” the PRC-Negros Occidental Bacolod City Chapter said.
Water for Gardens, Food Security
The project also combines water access with efforts to promote food security.
Schools are encouraged to establish vegetable gardens, while pupils and their families are being urged to plant fruit trees at home.
CPSU said these activities aim to encourage agricultural productivity among students, teachers, and families, while helping communities maximize the benefits of improved water access.
Through the project, water becomes more than a basic resource, supporting both the daily needs and long-term resilience of communities.
