Empowering Remote Communities: How a Solar Ice Plant Revolutionized Daily Life in Basilan
Excerpts from MindaNews by Bobby Timonera
In the remote barangays of Basilan, a game-changing solution is making waves—literally and economically. A solar-powered ice plant, developed by AASC Technologies Inc., is transforming the way communities preserve fish and run small businesses.
Affordable and Efficient Ice Production
For local fisher Pating Punso, buying ice used to cost ₱200 per block, requiring travel to distant vendors. Today, thanks to the new facility just 50 meters from his home, he purchases longer-lasting, cleaner ice blocks for only ₱60. The result? Lower expenses, less spoilage, and higher profitability.
Broad Community Benefits
The ice plant’s positive impact extends beyond fishermen. Halo-halo vendor Sitti-in Punso Saraman, 27, highlighted how the lower ice cost improved her daily earnings:
“At least I now have bigger income because the ice is cheaper,” she shared.
Innovative Local Solutions
The concept was brought to life by Ariel “Ayi” Hernandez, who saw how valuable catch was being wasted due to the unavailability of ice. Through AASC Technologies Inc., Hernandez and his team partnered with engineers and sourced quality components from China to assemble the solar-powered facility.
Sustainable Economic Development
Aside from food preservation, the project contributes to Basilan’s local economy. With an estimated monthly revenue of ₱130,000, the ice plant is expected to recover its initial investment in four years and continue to serve the community for at least a decade.
More from Tabuan Lasa, Basilan: A Glimpse Into Community Empowerment
Step into the lives of coastal communities transformed by the Sahaya Solar-Powered Ice Plant. From sustainable ice production to renewed livelihoods, these images capture the impact of clean technology—powering not just fish preservation, but hope, income, and resilience.
