CAPIZ — The Provincial Government of Capiz on January 8 inaugurated a new livelihood project for members of the Capiz Cacao Producers Cooperative (CCPC) with the turnover of a P1-million water refilling station in Panitan town.
The ceremony was held at the Cacao Factory in La Hacienda Libertad, Barangay Cogon, marking another milestone in the province’s efforts to strengthen local agricultural enterprises.
Dubbed the CCPC Fresh Flow Water Refilling Station, the facility was provided under the Sustainable Livelihood Program of the provincial government through the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA). The project aims to provide the cooperative with a sustainable income source while supporting community access to safe and clean drinking water.
In his message, Governor Fredenil H. Castro said the project fulfills long-standing aspirations to improve the livelihoods of Capiceños, particularly those in rural communities. He stressed the importance of creating alternative sources of income to help families move beyond traditional means of earning.
Members of the cooperative, led by CCPC President Dr. Rose Marie Conlu, expressed gratitude to the provincial government for its continued support, noting that the assistance will help strengthen the cacao and chocolate industry in the province.
They said the project will not only improve productivity among cacao farmers but also enhance community resilience amid economic challenges.
Also present during the inauguration were Capiz 1st District Deputy Provincial Administrator Enrique Martin, OPA Officer-in-Charge Raoul Perez, OPA consultant Sylvia dela Cruz, and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Capiz Officer-in-Charge Provincial Director Merian Asas.
Local officials who attended included Panitan Mayor Katherine Belo, Vice Mayor Atty. Audie Advincula, and Barangay Captain Genesis dela Cruz, along with members of the municipal and barangay councils.
With the establishment of the water refilling station, CCPC is expected to generate additional income for its members while providing the community with reliable access to potable water, contributing to broader economic development in the province./PN
