Davao Light and Power Company

Last December 22, just before everyone started celebrating the most wonderful time of the year, Davao Light and Power Co. officially turned over a Solar Charging Station to the Indigenous Peoples of Sitio Malambuon in Malabog, Paquibato District, Davao City, which is roughly 15 to 20 kilometers away from the nearest Davao Light pole. The 40 direct household beneficiaries also received solar power or deep cycle batteries that they will use to power up small household appliances and lights.

 

The 72 kilometer distance from downtown which is a two hour travel where one hour is a very bumpy ride were not hindrances for the Davao Light team as headed by Daniel Cabigon, Manager of Streetlights and Pole Utilities Department and Fermin Edillon, Community Relations Manager to deliver a Christmas gift to the community.

It took Davao Light team almost two months to erect the structures and prepare the houses ready for the solar electrification. With the help of many Davao Light employees who volunteered to do the house wiring and putting up of LED bulbs, switches and outlets in the 40 dispersed identified households, success was ensured.

Davao Light's project partner, Ateneo de Davao's Mindanawon Initiative for Cultural Dialogue will do the capacity training to the community to make the project more sustainable.

 

The community prepared a simple salo-salo to celebrate their appreciation. A tribal ritual was also performed called “padugo” or sacrificing of a duck, which they did to bring prosperity to their land and to show value for the gift that they have received.

 

"The smiles in the faces of the Indigenous Peoples of Sitio Malambuon painted a picture of a bright and meaningful way to celebrate Christmas." said Cabigon.