To assist the conflict-affected community, the water supply system was upgraded with the support of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), providing clean water for around 2,000 residents. The project was officially turned over to the local authorities on 7 August 2026.
The ICRC implemented a “cash-for-work program” in which more than 15 skilled residents were chosen and received payment for improving the water system. Faucets were installed inside the village to provide water to the elementary school and health center.
Since 1863, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has worked to relieve suffering and preserve human dignity during war and armed violence. ICRC delivers life-saving aid across front lines, strive to reconnect families, advocate for humane treatment of detainees and urge compliance with international humanitarian law to keep civilians safe, including online.
The water from a collection chamber is delivered to the elevated stainless-steel tanks installed within the community and school. Photo: M. Lucero/ICRC.
Around 400 students and teachers will benefit from the new water tanks and faucets installed in the vicinity of the village elementary school. This will greatly improve access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene and reduce their exposure to waterborne diseases. Photo: E. Lara/ICRC.
Several solar lamp posts were installed near the new water faucets to provide better lighting, so residents can safely and conveniently fetch water even during late hours. Photo: J. Betito/ICRC.
Village officials and representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross oversaw the official turnover of the upgraded water supply project in Barangay Bal-ason in Gingoog City in August 2026. The new water storage tanks have the capacity to store up to 15,000 liters of water. Photo: E. Lara/ICRC.
Facebook Conversations