Maintaining peace at Cordillera mountain top through installation of solar light posts

The Rotary Club of Makati Poblacion provided and installed 25 units of medium sized Solar panel with steel posts outside the residences of the constituents of Brgy. Belong, Tinglayan Kalinga

Belong, Tinglayan, Kalinga- 15 hours away from Manila, generally mountainous and characterized by steep, sloped and deep ravines. The Municipality of Tinglayan  has a population of 12,865 across 2,273 households and considered the farthest among the 8 Municipalities of Kalinga.  Brgy. Belong has around 558  residents.  

Belong is located in remote areas with limited access to electricity from the main power grid. This project was proposed last July 2, 2025 by a work colleague of our incumbent president, under Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 15 Pro Cordillera.  Their team is currently in charge of monitoring and maintaining peace and order in the area.  One of their concerns is the Belong passage (narrow street  not meant for transportation access) which is more than 500 meters that they have been manning.  The main access to the community is a long stretch of cemented flooring but as one descends, it becomes uneven, separated in the middle part leading to several homes and a multipurpose hall with steep stairs going on the upper side. 

The passage has no street lighting, forcing residents to rely on gas lamps or flashlights during their daily walk.  Though handrail seem stable but it's beside tree-lined cliff posing additional risk especially on rainy days where it becomes slippery in the narrow long path that cause accidents and danger especially at night time. Children are discouraged to go outside and play after sunset due to a darker and unlit environment.

As a result, the community faces significant challenges in terms of lighting infrastructure.  Many households and public spaces lack adequate lighting, leading to safety and security concerns, limited visibility and hindrances to daily activities.  The students also shared the same struggle as they did their homework and other take home assignments for traditionally kerosene lamps for lighting are used.  Even though, Kalinga Electric Cooperative (KAELCO) supports a few areas, there is still a need to provide outdoor solar lights to address specific challenges encountered by the residents.

The assessment done by our partner was based on interviews and experience by community members since they are settling near the area. Some residents say, they have been waiting for this to be addressed but even the Mayor has very limited resources. After RCMP's review on the proposal, the main objective is to install stable lighting posts (Solar light).

RCMP sourced support from its International partner from Japan around P92,000 (15%) and the rest of the fund was provided by the club members and AKG Team led by our president. A total of P614,000  was spent for the purchase of 25 units of solar panel lights and posts with delivery and installation to the site plus logistics.

The project started first week of September, 2025. The purchased 25 units of solar was not enough but each were positioned properly, around 15 meters apart  in one line on the tree cliff side.  It has somehow covered 375 meters of the passage and was completed in 3 weeks. With the support and monitoring of our coordinator, RMFB 15 Pro Cordillera, The Mayor and Volunteer residents, everything were accomplished appropriately.

Last September 30, 2025, 4 RCMP members went up to Kalinga to inspect the installation and for the turnover ceremony attended by the Mayor and residents of Brgy. Belong.  RCMP also distributed 100 packs of Gardenia bread to the children courtesy of RC Alabang.  The ceremony went well with the unveiling of the marker signifying the support given by RCMP and partners to the residents. 

The initial phase has been completed. However, there are still more solar panels needed by the community including the area beside it which is Man-ubal  in need of the same support.  The long passage where the entire people walk has to be fully lit.  If this will be addressed many improvements can happen in the area.  Such as:

• Illumination can uplift the spirit of the residents knowing they are living in a safer environment

• Higher level of visibility can encourage better communication, bayanihan meetings and social activities that could strengthen relationships

• Kerosene, Flashlight batteries expenses will be reduced allowing these amounts to be diverted into other important family needs.

• Business opportunities can be encouraged such as stores for selling goods and services can be opened even at night

• Peace and order are strengthened when the watchers  do rounds in the area

• Children are more energized doing their home works and extra curricular tasks.

We are all aware that proper lighting significantly boosts mental health, enhances mood and increases productivity  by good sleep quality and reduction of stress.  While the environment of Brgy Belong is quiet and cool, bright lighting increases alertness and cognitive performance.  It alleviate depression and anxiety as well.  With the increasing number of children in the area, a soothing environment with security is vital.  Proper illumination can help them grow with a sound mind and clarity of purpose.  It’s not only the solar light , we provide, it’s the future of the children that could change and elevate the community’s progress.

The next move of RCMP is to apply for a global grant to secure at least 50 more Solar panels and posts. Other local and international partners are also tapped on this endeavor for  better impact and sustainability. Written by: PP Medileen H. Maeda