30 barangays in Mountain Province now solar powered

BONTOC, Mountain Province — A team from Mapua University completed the installation of solar panels across 30 barangays in Mountain Province on 1 April 2026.

The installation was conducted through the university’s Social Orientation and Community Involvement Program (SOCIP) following an official turnover ceremony at the Governor’s Mansion in the capital town of Bontoc on 28 March 2026. The project aimed to provide sustainable energy to local government units (LGUs) to support administrative operations and community services.

The installation process began in the municipality of Bontoc, covering the barangays of Samoki, Poblacion, Tacucan, and Bontoc Ili. On 29 March 2026, the university team moved to Besao to outfit the barangays of Gueday, Banguitan, Padangaan, and Kin-iway, while also completing work in Patay, Sagada.

Deployment continued in Sagada from 30 to 31 March. During this period, solar panels were installed in the northern barangays of Fidelisan, Pide, Aguid, Bangaan, Tanulong, and Madongo. Additional installations followed in Nacagang, Taccong, Suyo, Ankileng, Ambasing, Balugan, Demang, and Dagdag. The team also reached Lagan in the municipality of Sabangan during this phase. The project concluded with the remaining Bontoc barangays of Gonogon, Balili, Alab Oriente, Alab Proper, Talubin, and Callutit.

Local officials from the recipient communities stated that the new energy source would improve daily operations and the delivery of public services. This project follows a previous SOCIP initiative in 2021, when the university donated and installed over 200 solar street lights in Aguid, Taccong, and Poblacion.

Engr. Joyrence Mervin Q. Agas, the SOCIP Director, noted that the 2021 installations remain operational and continue to provide visibility and safety for residents.

The university team was accompanied during the activity by several local officials, including Bontoc Mayor Franklin C. Odsey, Executive Assistant V Benedict Odsey II, Provincial Peace and Order Council (PPOC) Focal Person Angel B. Baybay, and the Provincial Information Office.