Tuburan, Cebu – July 4, 2026 — Cebu Technological University (CTU) Tuburan Campus officially launched Phase 4 of the Electricity Decarbonization Program: Harnessing the Sun’s Power Through Sustainable Community Cooperation (EDP HaTSPoTSCC) through the opening program for the Establishment of a Solar-Powered Rainwater Harvesting Facility Prototype at the Alegria Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (AFACO) Hall in Barangay Alegria, Tuburan, Cebu.
The initiative marks another significant milestone in CTU Tuburan’s continuing commitment to advancing renewable energy technologies, climate resilience, and sustainable community development. Building on the accomplishments of the previous phases of the EDP HaTSPoTSCC program, Phase 4 introduces an integrated solar-powered rainwater-harvesting system designed to improve water access while promoting environmentally responsible resource management.
The opening ceremony brought together representatives from the university, local government units, the Alegria Farmers Agriculture Cooperative (AFACO), faculty members, extension personnel, and community stakeholders, highlighting the collaborative spirit that has underpinned the program’s success.
Mrs. Cheryll T. Bandilao, Chairperson of AFACO, welcomed the participants and expressed the cooperative’s appreciation for CTU Tuburan’s continued partnership in empowering the farming community. The purpose of the activity was presented by Prof. Devonna M. Celedonio, Chairperson of Extension Services, emphasizing the university’s role in delivering responsive extension programs that address local development needs.
Engr. Naomi A. Bajao, Project Leader, presented the project summary, highlighting the evolution of the EDP HaTSPoTSCC initiative and the objectives of Phase 4. The project aims to establish a sustainable water-harvesting facility powered by renewable energy, enabling community members to access an alternative water source while strengthening local capacity to operate and maintain clean energy technologies.
The project’s technical framework and implementation strategy were presented by Engr. Fernando N. Mangubat Jr., Dean of the College of Technology and Project Proponent. His presentation outlined the design of the solar-powered rainwater-harvesting facility and explained how renewable energy technologies can be harnessed to provide practical, sustainable solutions for water resource management in agricultural communities.
A highlight of the program was the ceremonial signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), symbolizing the strengthened partnership among CTU Tuburan, the local government of Barangay Alegria, the Municipality of Tuburan, and the Alegria Farmers Agriculture Cooperative. The agreement formalizes the collective commitment of all stakeholders toward the successful implementation and long-term sustainability of the project.
A message of support was delivered by Barangay Captain Hon. Jeffrey D. Balen, who recognized the importance of renewable energy and sustainable water systems in enhancing agricultural productivity, environmental resilience, and community welfare. They commended CTU Tuburan for continuously extending technological innovations that directly benefit local communities.
The program concluded with closing remarks by Mr. Sergio R. Magpuyo Jr., who encouraged sustained collaboration among the university, government agencies, and community organizations to ensure the project’s successful implementation and long-term impact.
The Establishment of a Solar-Powered Rainwater Harvesting Facility Prototype represents another step toward CTU Tuburan’s vision of becoming a globally recognized, community-responsive, and sustainable technological university. Through initiatives such as EDP HaTSPoTSCC, the university continues to demonstrate how research, innovation, and extension can work together to address pressing environmental challenges while empowering communities to build a more resilient and sustainable future.