Victorias City in Negros Occidental advances its eco-friendly initiatives with the inauguration of its new Solar Water System in Barangay XIV on Friday, September 13.
The project, developed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) through the Office of Third District Representative, now TESDA Director General Jose Francisco Benitez, and the 2023 General Appropriations Act, in partnership with the City of Victorias led by Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez, aims to provide the growing community with a clean, safe, and reliable water supply powered by renewable solar energy.
As part of the city’s agenda for a sustainable future, the facility is designed to provide clean water for about 100 residents in the area, a press release from Victorias City said.
Benitez, in his message, described the project as “smart, sustainable, and environment-friendly”, which positions Victorias as a model for water security and sustainable development.
“Let us continue and sustain this collective effort to make a smart and sustainable city,” Benitez said.
The mayor also shared his future plans for the solar water system to also be adopted at the New Government Site, other government buildings and barangay halls.
VCWD General Manager Abraham De Dios Jr. said “This project is more than just an infrastructure milestone—it symbolizes our shared commitment to sustainability, innovation, and service to the people of Victorias,” he added.
The inauguration commenced with the signing of the Certificate of Acceptance by Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez and DPWH Engineer II Bennil Juele from the 1st District Engineering Office.
Following this, a symbolic turnover of the Key of Responsibility marked the formal handover of the project from DPWH to the City of Victorias.
The signing of the Deed of Donation and Acceptance between the City of Victorias and the VCWD, represented by Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez and VCWD General Manager Abraham De Dios Jr., also took place.
This document formalizes the transfer of the solar pumping station facility, which stands on donated land owned by VCWD Chairman of the Board Jose Ma. Valentin Garcia and his family, who also witnessed the signing along with City Engineer Mary Jean Majaducon.
The City also turned over the Key of Responsibility to the Victorias City Water District, signifying both parties’ commitment to ensuring the quality and safety of the water supply for the local community.
The inauguration concluded with the ceremonial switching of the pump motor, symbolizing the start of a new era in water service for Victorias Cit y— one powered by the sun and committed to a water-secure future for all its residents, the press release said.*