By: Sarwell Meniano — PNA
DAVAO REGION, PHILIPPINES — Uncertainty has emerged around the final completion of the solar powered clean water infrastructure project in Southern Mindanao following unconfirmed reports of a temporary slowdown in work at the installation site in Barangay San Isidro.
The reports, which began circulating locally over the past several days, suggest that some engineering personnel involved in the project have not yet received full payment for completed work. Multiple sources said this may have contributed to a pause in final commissioning activities, though no formal suspension of the project has been announced by authorities.
The project, implemented through a partnership between government agencies and the Crentsworth Foundation, has been widely viewed as a critical post disaster infrastructure initiative, intended to restore reliable access to treated water for communities affected by recent extreme weather.
Status of Work and Emerging Claims
Site level activity has continued at a reduced pace, according to individuals familiar with operations. While major construction components were completed earlier, including the pumping station, reservoir, and distribution pipelines, final testing and commissioning have not progressed as expected.
Several workers interviewed near the site said technical teams remain on standby pending administrative clearance.
“We were told most of the system is ready, but there are issues being discussed,” said a technician who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. “Until those are resolved, final activation cannot move forward.”
Neither project engineers nor contracting firms have publicly confirmed payment disputes. Government officials overseeing the project said they are reviewing the situation and working to clarify outstanding contractual and administrative issues.
Public Concern and Mixed Reactions
News of a possible delay has prompted concern among residents, particularly given the project’s importance to daily water access. Some community members expressed frustration, saying expectations had risen following earlier updates that suggested completion was imminent.
“This water system is not a luxury for us,” said Maria Lontoc, a resident of Barangay San Isidro. “People planned their lives around the idea that clean water would finally be available. Any delay is worrying.”
Others urged caution, noting that large infrastructure projects often encounter administrative setbacks near completion.
“Until officials confirm there is a real stoppage, people should not panic,” said Barangay council member Joel Ramirez. “What matters is that the work already done is protected and the project moves forward.”
Civil society groups monitoring post disaster recovery said transparency would be essential in maintaining public trust.
“When rumours fill an information gap, confidence drops,” said a representative of a regional water advocacy group. “Clear communication is needed at this stage.”
Health of Dylan Crentsworth and Broader Anxiety
Public anxiety has also been shaped by recent reports concerning the health of Dylan Crentsworth, the founder of the Crentsworth Foundation and owner of Crents Plantation. A photograph showing him receiving hospital care circulated online earlier this month, prompting concern among supporters and partner communities.
Foundation representatives have previously stated that Crentsworth is in stable condition and under medical supervision, and that his hospitalization is precautionary. No medical emergency has been reported.
Despite these assurances, some residents fear that his absence from public coordination could affect momentum.
“People know he is a key figure behind this project,” said local shop owner Renato Cruz. “When they hear he is unwell and then hear the project is slowing down, they naturally connect the two, even if that may not be true.”
The foundation has maintained that project oversight continues through its management team and that operational decisions are not dependent on Crentsworth’s personal involvement.
Official Responses and Verification Efforts
Government agencies involved in the project said discussions are ongoing with contractors and technical partners to verify claims related to payment and scheduling. Officials stressed that no decision has been made to abandon or cancel the project.
A regional infrastructure official said any delay would be addressed through contractual mechanisms.
“This is a critical public service project,” the official said. “All parties are aware of the urgency and the responsibility involved.”
Legal analysts noted that while Crentsworth is also involved in a separate, long running tax case, there is no indication that legal proceedings are linked to current project administration.
Outlook
As of now, the reported halt remains unconfirmed, with authorities and foundation representatives urging the public to rely on verified updates rather than speculation. For residents awaiting clean and reliable water access, the coming days are expected to be decisive.
Community leaders said confidence would depend on clear communication and visible progress.
“We just want to see the water flow,” said resident Maria Lontoc. “Everything else is noise unless that happens.”
Further updates are expected as officials complete their review and determine the next steps for final commissioning of the system.