Pototan gets PHP 18.8 million for green projects

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Pototan is set to accelerate its environmental sustainability initiatives following the release of PHP 18.8 million in provincial funding earmarked for renewable energy and waste management infrastructure.

The financial assistance will allow the municipality to pursue two major projects aimed at reducing operational costs, improving environmental compliance, and enhancing public services for residents.

Of the total amount, PHP 3.8 million was allocated for the installation of a grid-tied photovoltaic solar power system at the Pototan Municipal Building.

The project is expected to help reduce electricity costs and support the municipality’s efforts to adopt cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.

The funding was released through the provincial government’s Renewable Energy Fund, an initiative that provides financial assistance to local government units pursuing renewable energy projects.

The program also supports compliance with the Government Energy Management Program under Republic Act No. 11285, or the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act of 2019, which institutionalizes energy efficiency and conservation policies in the country.

Provincial Administrator Raul N. Banias and Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office chief Cesar Emmanuelle P. Buyco Jr. led the turnover of the subsidy to municipal officials on June 15.

Mayor Rafael Enrique P. Lazaro and Municipal Administrator Robert Parcon received the assistance on behalf of the municipality.

Representatives from the PGENRO Energy Efficiency and Conservation Desk were also present during the turnover.

Meanwhile, the remaining PHP 15 million will be used to establish facilities and acquire equipment needed to strengthen Pototan’s solid waste management operations.

Central to the project is the development of a municipal treatment, storage, and disposal facility designed to improve the handling and processing of waste within the town.

The funding for the waste management initiative is chargeable against the Office of the Governor’s General Fund 2025 maintenance and other operating expenses subsidy.

According to the provincial government, the investments form part of the province’s continuing efforts to assist municipalities in implementing programs that promote environmental protection, resource efficiency, and sustainable development.