The Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP), led by its Intensified Building-Up of Infrastructure and Logistics for Development (I-BUILD) Component, and in close cooperation with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Baybay City successfully conducted the Pre-final (Punchlist) Inspection of the ongoing Baybay City Barangay Water System Development Project this November 7 – 8 in Baybay, Leyte.

The activity marks another milestone in the implementation of the project, which aims to provide safe and reliable water supply to the residents of eight barangays – Plaridel, Maslug, Bitanhuan, Maitum, Punta, Jaena, Sabang, and Palhi. The inspection team, composed of representatives from the Regional Project Coordination Office 8 (RPCO 8 ), LGU of Baybay and together with the subproject’s contractor, RJIR Enterprises Corporation, meticulously assessed the subproject’s infrastructure components to ensure compliance with technical specifications and quality standards.

The Pre-final Inspection yielded satisfactory results, confirming that the project has been implemented according to design and specifications, with major structures completed and functional. However, the team also identified minor flaws and deficiencies, such as small adjustments and finishing works, which were duly noted in the punchlist. The contractor has committed to address and rectify these issues promptly to ensure that all components are fully compliant before the final turnover of the project.

The Baybay City Barangay Water System Development Project is a Level II potable water system that includes one intake box, four reservoirs, a multi-media filtration system, and 48.621 kilometers of pipeline connecting 438 communal tap stands. With an approximate total project cost of Php114 million, it is jointly funded by the World Bank through loan proceeds, the Government of the Philippines, and the Baybay City LGU.

As of October 2025, the project’s physical accomplishment has reached 99.7%, surpassing its 97% target schedule, while financial accomplishment is at 91.89%. This reflects the strong partnership and commitment of all stakeholders in ensuring that project deliverables meet the highest standards before final turnover.

Once completed, the project will directly benefit 2,266 households or approximately 8,492 residents, including 1,922 farmers and 476 fisherfolk, across the identified barangays. The improved access to potable water is expected to enhance public health, increase productivity, and uplift the overall quality of life in these rural communities.

The successful conduct of the pre-final inspection demonstrates PRDP’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and the efficient delivery of infrastructure projects that truly address the needs of the people. Through initiatives like this, the agency continues to empower local government units in building sustainable rural infrastructure for inclusive growth and agricultural development.

As the project nears completion, this milestone stands as a testament to the power of partnership, perseverance, and purpose – proving that when communities and the government work hand in hand, progress truly flows to every household and every Filipino. (Lorrenz Renomeron, Writer, RPCO 8)