In Barangay San Isidro, Lagangilang, Abra, families once relied on unreliable communal faucets, constantly worrying about water shortages. This changed in May 2019 when the Villa San Isidro Water System Association (VSIWSA) was designated as the Operational and Management Group for the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) subproject, Construction of Barangay San Isidro Level II Water Supply System. What started as a small group focused on maintaining a government-funded water system soon evolved into a community-driven initiative with a broader vision.
Instead of settling for a basic water supply, VSIWSA aspired to establish a fully metered Level III water system with direct household connections, ensuring reliable access for all. From being mere beneficiaries of a community development project, the Association grew into an established water service provider in the area.
The Project’s Beginnings
In 2018, the subproject was prioritized for funding under the KALAHI-CIDSS program to ensure sustainable clean water access in Barangay San Isidro. It was completed in May 2019 and was officially turned over in June 2019. Instead of just maintaining the original Level II water system from the KALAHI-CIDSS subproject, the Association aimed for long-term self-sufficiency, transitioning into an independent and established water service provider that could continuously improve and expand water access in Barangay San Isidro.
To support this vision, the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) passed Resolution No. 3, Series of 2019, entitled “Resolution Authorizing the Collection of Water Consumers’ Fees in Barangay San Isidro, Lagangilang, Abra, and Indirect Beneficiaries.” This resolution allowed the collection of water fees to fund system improvements. Through this initiative, VSIWSA successfully transitioned to a Level III water system, transforming a once-scarce resource into a reliable service that secures the community’s future.
Overcoming the Odds
VSIWSA’s success was far from easy. The KALAHI-CIDSS Program only funds Level II water systems, meaning the cost of upgrading to Level III had to come from the Association and the barangay government. Upgrading from a Level II to Level III system required significant changes to infrastructure, including the installation of household connections and expanded water delivery systems. Balancing the need for infrastructure development with the reality of keeping water fees affordable was a constant challenge. Additionally, legal recognition remained an uphill battle, as VSIWSA struggled to secure full accreditation and representation in Barangay and Municipal Development Councils, a crucial step toward gaining institutional support.
Beyond financial and bureaucratic challenges, VSIWSA had to contend with the unpredictability of nature. In July 2022, a devastating 6.7-magnitude earthquake struck Abra, damaging pipelines and threatening the entire system. But instead of waiting for external aid, VSIWSA took action. They allocated ₱50,000 from their own funds to repair the damage, ensuring that residents had uninterrupted access to water despite the crisis. VSIWSA’s strength lies in its financial discipline and community-first approach. Unlike other water service providers, VSIWSA keeps rates affordable at just ₱50. This amount ensures even the most low-income families can access clean water without hardship. By maintaining a savings account at Abra Diocesan Teachers and Employees Multi-Purpose Cooperative (ADTEMPCO) and an operational income of ₱420, 465 as of Dec 31, 2024, the association has proven that a community-managed water system can be financially stable without burdening its residents.
More than just an organization, VSIWSA has embraced social responsibility as part of its mission. They provide free water services to plazas, churches, daycare centers, and even barangay-wide events such as weddings and wakes, ensuring that no resident is left without access to clean water. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they supplied free water to quarantine facilities and checkpoint areas, and in the aftermath of the 2022 earthquake, they waived water fees for affected households, proving that their commitment goes beyond profit—it is about community resilience and collective well-being.
A Model for Community-Driven Change
VSIWSA’s work has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office – Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWD FO CAR) honored them during its 69th Anniversary Celebration, recognizing them as a model for community-driven water initiatives. Their dedication and impact were recognized when VSIWSA was nominated for the prestigious Salamat Po Awards, which honors outstanding contributions to social development. This nomination in the Best Non-Government Organization – Group Category solidified their reputation as one of the most impactful volunteer-led initiatives in the region.
Beyond accolades, VSIWSA has made a tangible impact on national and global development goals. Their efforts align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6, which seeks universal access to safe drinking water by 2030, as well as the Philippine Development Plan (2023-2028) and the Philippine Water Supply and Sanitation Master Plan (2019-2030), both of which aim to expand potable water accessibility and ensure sustainability in water services.
More Than Just Water: A Legacy of Service and Hope
While VSIWSA has achieved remarkable success, their journey is far from over. The Association continues to push for full legal accreditation, ensuring that their presence in municipal and barangay development councils is solidified. Infrastructure improvements remain a priority, as they seek to expand and reinforce pipelines to prevent damage from future disasters. They are also working toward forging stronger partnerships with government agencies and private organizations, aiming to enhance their technical and financial resources.
A key focus moving forward is capacity-building for VSIWSA members. By equipping their team with specialized training in water system operations and maintenance, they can ensure long-term sustainability and efficiency. More than just keeping the system running, they want to continue innovating, improving, and finding new ways to provide better services to the community.
VSIWSA’s work transcends the delivery of water to homes—it is about building community strength, fostering resilience in the face of adversity, and demonstrating that grassroots solutions can overcome even the most formidable challenges. Their story is one of determination, leadership, and grassroots action, where a small community organization took charge of its future and transformed a necessity into a symbol of hope and progress.
Through their tireless efforts, VSIWSA has ensured that clean water is no longer a privilege but a right—one that will continue flowing for generations to come. #DSWD-CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, Yvonne Gracious T. Elegado, Social Marketing Officer III.
