By Chris V. Panganiban
Inquirer Mindanao Bureau
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — Butuan City is moving closer to a cleaner energy future with the development of large-scale solar projects and the introduction of electric tricycles as part of its long-term strategy to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
A 13-megawatt-peak solar project is expected to begin operations in the fourth quarter of 2026, while plans are underway for a 15-megawatt flood-resilient solar farm and the installation of rooftop solar panels on the city government building, according to a report from the Butuan City Public Information Office.
The initiatives are part of the Butuan City Energy Development Plan 2023–2050, which aims to promote renewable energy use and help the city achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The projects were presented during the third-quarter meeting of the Institutional Development Sector Working Committee of the Butuan City Development Council (BCDC)on Sept. 21.
Also included in the city’s sustainability agenda is the pilot testing of 17 electric tricycles, as local officials explore cleaner and more efficient alternatives for public transportation.
The energy and transport initiatives are among the city’s long-term development programs discussed during the meeting chaired by Dr. Victor Emmanuel A. Ozarraga, head of the BCDC Institutional Development Sector Working Committee.
Social Programs
Beyond renewable energy, Butuan City is also advancing programs focused on health care, family planning, housing, and community services.
Under the Family Planning Plan 2026–2030, the City Health Department aims to expand access to family planning services, particularly for families who want to manage the number and spacing of their children but have yet to receive adequate support.
The program also encourages greater involvement of men in family planning initiatives, with the city government allocating resources to sustain related services.
In health care, the city plans to establish main health centers in Sumilihon, Lumbocan, and San Vicenteto bring essential medical services closer to residents.
The city government is likewise pursuing the development of the Center for Excellence North Campusand continuing its housing assistance initiatives.
According to the presentation, the local government has supported 28 subdivisions and is preparing to issue Certificates of Lot Award to 508 qualified beneficiaries.
Community services
Meanwhile, the Butuan on Wheels program has provided assistance to 39,587 residents across 52 barangays since 2016, supporting emergency response, environmental initiatives, and other community-based services.
The meeting also reviewed the 2025 Butuan City Ecological Profile, which provides updated information on the city’s population, economy, infrastructure, agriculture, and climate conditions.
The profile recorded Butuan City’s population at 385,530 and its gross domestic product at P66.46 billion in 2024.
Recommendations from the Institutional Development Sector Working Committee will be forwarded to the BCDC Full Council for further review and action.
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