Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, known for her progressive leadership and sustainable development agenda, visited a prototype Power Plant of the Napier Grass Energy Project in Taguig City, July 10.
The visit was part of the city government’s ongoing initiatives to explore innovative and renewable energy solutions that could benefit Isabela City. Mayor Turabin-Hataman was given a comprehensive tour of the facility, which utilizes Napier Grass—an eco-friendly and fast-growing biomass crop—as a sustainable source of clean energy.
The prototype power plant is a flagship project of Green Renewable Energy and is gaining attention nationwide for its potential to reduce carbon emissions and provide alternative livelihood opportunities for local farmers.
During the visit, Mayor Turabin-Hataman also engaged with Chairman and Chief
Technology Officer of Fibertech Secura RE Corp. Engr Danny Manayaga, project developers, and technical personnel of the facility, inquiring about its operational capacity, potential for replication in smaller island settings, and its role in promoting community-based energy production.
This initiative also aligns with the city’s goal of addressing the perennial issue of frequent brownouts that have long burdened Isabeleños and hampered local investments and business growth. By exploring alternative and sustainable energy sources like Napier Grass, the city government hopes to build a more stable and reliable power supply that can support economic development and improve the quality of life for its residents.
The city government is now studying the feasibility of introducing Napier Grass cultivation and biomass energy technology in Isabela City, not only as a renewable energy source but also as a way to empower local farmers and create green jobs.
The mayor was accompanied by Prof. Maoi Arroyo of Sulo Barakah Ventures, LEDIPO Chief Jaime Juanito Rivera, CSO Desk/IP Affairs Focal Norhaiya Macusang, further reflecting the city’s multi-sectoral approach to development planning.
This learning visit marks another step forward in Mayor Turabin-Hataman’s vision of a self-reliant and sustainable Isabela City—one that is ready to embrace innovative solutions for a better future. (Contributed Report)
