N. Samar eyes floodwater for drinking supply

TACLOBAN CITY — Facing the ongoing challenge of flooding, the Northern Samar provincial government is looking at a creative solution: turning floodwater into safe, drinkable water.

Jhon Allen Berbon, head of Northern Samar’s Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO), says Gov. Edwin Ongchuan’s team is committed to finding practical, locally fit answers to secure a reliable source of potable water.

“Flooding has been a persistent problem in parts of our province,” Berbon explained. “But instead of just seeing it as a headache, we want to explore how we can turn this abundant surface water into a real opportunity.”

To that end, PEDIPO sent a team to Cagayan de Oro City on 28–29 May to check out Hanabana Water, one of Mindanao’s top potable water suppliers and distributors.

During their visit, the team toured Hanabana’s facilities in Dansolihon, Cagayan de Oro City and Libona, Bukidnon. They got a close look at the company’s innovative water treatment and distribution systems in action.

“These site visits gave us great insight into how Hanabana’s filtration-based technology can scale up and operate efficiently while being environmentally friendly,” Berbon said. “It looks like a great fit for Northern Samar’s terrain and resources.”

Berbon emphasized the provincial government is focused on sustainable, affordable water solutions, especially for municipalities struggling with water scarcity.

He also noted Hanabana’s strong track record, particularly in bulk water supply and level 3 distribution systems in Northern Mindanao. The company currently has projects in Bacolod, Camarines Sur, and Giporlos in Eastern Samar, which means they’re familiar with the water infrastructure challenges here in Eastern Visayas.

The team also discussed various partnership and investment options, like Public-Private Partnerships and Local Economic Enterprises, which offer local governments flexible ways to develop inclusive, viable water projects.

“This potential partnership fits perfectly with Northern Samar’s broader development goals, especially our push to work closely with the private sector to build sustainable infrastructure,” Berbon added.

Hanabana Water executives are set to visit Northern Samar soon for an ocular inspection. This will help both sides evaluate the technical possibilities, identify water sources, and lay the groundwork for formal collaboration.