Malabuyoc Bulk Water Project Nears Completion Amid Power Supply Finalization

The installation of the bulk water system in Malabuyoc is expected to be finalized soon, following the approval from Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro to proceed with the remaining electrical supply arrangements. This update was provided by Joe Kenneth Arbas of SBK Construction Inc. during his visit to the Capitol on Thursday, September 11, 2025.

Arbas explained that the final requirements include completing documentation and a resolution from the Provincial Board, which must also be submitted to the Cebu Electric Cooperative (Cebeco) to enable power provision to the project site.

"The Malabuyoc project is 100 percent complete except for the electricity connection. The Provincial Engineering office has confirmed that the necessary documents, including the board resolution authorizing the governor to transact with Cebeco for powering the transmission lines, have been submitted," Arbas stated.

Despite the official completion target set for December, Arbas expressed optimism that the bulk water system will be operational before the year ends.

While progress is evident for Malabuyoc, delays loom for the bulk water project in Alegria. Arbas noted potential termination of the contract with St. Gerard Construction General Contractor and Development Corporation due to licensing issues.

"They want us to discuss how to proceed after the cancellation of Discaya’s license. There is still significant work remaining, so they invited us to sit down and talk about the next steps given the license revocation," he revealed.

He indicated that even if the current contract is terminated, SBK Construction Inc. intends to participate in any subsequent bidding process. Arbas hopes their license for provincial projects will be approved despite the controversy surrounding Discaya’s contractor.

In light of ongoing investigations and hearings at the national level, Arbas emphasized the importance of distinguishing between responsible and irresponsible contractors.

"Not all contractors are bad; many depend on these projects for their livelihood and have incurred debts. Unfortunately, recent controversies have tarnished the reputation of contractors as a whole. Now, just mentioning the word 'contractor' evokes a negative image," he lamented.