Fausto Libranza leads the construction of Potable Water System through Kalahi-CIDSS with a total grant allocation of P 1,435,320.00.
Compostela, Compostela Valley (DSWD XI) – Fausto Libranza, 83, is a Barangay Captain here in Gabi. For decades of service in his community, he finds it hard to imagine what lies ahead when he gets old. But upon the entry of Kalahi-CIDSS in Gabi in 2010, things changed for him.
“Our functions do not end as we age, we learn new things each day and we use what we have learned to help our community. My age is never a hindrance for me to help my community,” shared Libranza.
During the 2nd Kalahi-CIDSS Regional Bayani Ka Awards in February, Libranza was cited Best Volunteer for his active participation in Kalahi-CIDSS implementation under the Senior Citizen Category.
The award-giving body seeks to recognize the contribution of program supporters in promoting community driven development, and convene Kalahi-CIDSS volunteer-champions and heroes from different communities and share their best practice.
Kalahi-CIDSS, or Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services is one of the core programs of DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) that aims to empower communities through enhanced participation in local governance and poverty alleviation projects.
Never too old or too late
Libranza is a high school graduate who grew up in Barangay Gabi.
Libranza and his wife Elioteria, 80, have nine children.
“I never imagined Kalahi-CIDSS would open opportunities to senior citizens like me.” He reflected at the end of the first barangay assembly he attended in 2010.
When he volunteered in Kalahi-CIDSS, he realized that he’s never too old to serve his community. In fact, he was elected Barangay Sub-Project Management Committee (BSPMC) chair of Kalahi-CIDSS PAMANA.
“Sa kadugay nako og panerbisyo sa barangay isip usa ka barangay kapitan, wala ko magtoo nga musalig gihapon sila maskin pa og tigulang na ko (With my long stint as barangay chair, I never thought the community would still trust me to lead considering my age).”
Shortly, Libranza started to lead the construction of a potable water system with a total grant allocation of P 1,435, 320.00.
“Na challenge ko sa pag implementar sa water system nga sub-proyekto. Kami gyud ang mamalit sa mga materyales sa Davao. Kailangan according gyud sa standard. Kung ing-ani ang sub-proyekto sa gobyerno, mas maayo kay makita nato kung unsa ang atong gigastuhan. Naa gyud transparency (I was challenged during the implementation of the water system sub-project. We were the ones who purchased the materials in Davao. We had to follow standards. It is best if government projects are run like this because it is clear where the funds went. There is transparency).”
Libranza also talked about his passion for helping others. “It gave me immense joy. Even if there’s no financial compensation, I felt fulfilled that I was able to help my community.”
He also encouraged fellow senior citizens to engage in Kalahi-CIDSS activities.
To date, a total 1,844 community volunteers are senior citizens based on Kalahi-CIDSS monitoring and evaluation record.
“We can still make a big difference,” said Libranza when he received his recognition as best senior citizen. “Senior citizens still could and should play a vital part in the development of our community.”
Libranza’s one wish for his community: “I hope our youth today would take part and have a concern for the community. I hope they sustain what Kalahi-CIDSS has started.” (DSWD)