Kiblawan, Davao del Sur — Nights are becoming brighter in Barangay Balasiao as solar-powered streetlights, supported by Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI), begin to illuminate roads and public areas across the community.
The project was funded through SMI’s Social Development and Management Program (SDMP). For residents, particularly those in more distant sitios, the lights offer better visibility when traveling or moving around the barangay after dark.
Barangay Chairman Jessie S. Pandian said the community is deeply grateful for the assistance.
“Ang tibuok banay sa Barangay Balasiao, sangko sa langit ang maong pagpasalamat labi na sa proyekto nga ilang gihatag,” Pandian said on August 4.
He said the solar lights can help the barangay sustain its efforts to keep public areas safer and maintain peace and order at night.
“Pinaagi aning solar nga suga, ang atong kalinaw og kahusay padayon nga mamintenar. Dako kaayo mi’g utang kabubut-on og kalipay sa tibuok Barangay Balasiao,” he added.
The installation grew out of discussions between SMI, the barangay local government unit, and the Indigenous Cultural Communities (ICCs). The community identified where lighting was most needed, helping ensure that the project addressed conditions experienced by residents themselves.
While modest in scale, projects like this can make a noticeable difference in places where access to basic services remains limited. Better-lit roads and shared spaces can make evening travel easier for families, students, workers, and other residents.
SMI expects its SDMP budget to expand once the project enters commercial operation. This could allow SMI, together with its partner barangays and ICCs, to pursue more community priorities, including additional lighting, upgrades to existing facilities, and other small infrastructure projects in remote areas. (30)
