Silaki Island, a heart-shaped 10-hectare islet located at Brgy. Binabalian, Bolinao, Pangasinan is renowned as a marine conservation haven, home to a thriving 16-hectare population of giant clams. The beauty of the ocean surrounds Silaki Island, but beneath its natural beauty and marine biodiversity lies a pressing challenge: a scarcity of freshwater. To access potable water, island residents like Brando Padilla, a member of the Bolinao Task Force Bantay Dagat, often travel on a 15-20 minute boat journey to Santiago Island. The arduous task, combined with additional fuel costs and weather risks, emphasizes the pressing need for a sustainable water solution.
Providing solutions: The Department of Science and Technology Region 1 (DOST-1) has taken a significant step in providing a sustainable and renewable source of freshwater for the island’s community through the launch of the solar-powered water desalination facility on October 22, 2024, under the DOST’s Community Empowerment thru Science & Technology (CEST) Program.
Dr. Teresita A. Tabaog, regional director of DOST 1, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in making the desalination project a success. The project was made possible with the support of various partners, the DOST 1 CEST Program funded the Solar-Powered Water Desalination System: the LGU of Bolinao, which provided the 100-square-meter lot area and construction of the building, and the Rotary Club of Bolinao, which donated water gallons to the residents. Tabaog emphasized the crucial role of community involvement, stating, “ The success of this project hinges on the active participation of the Silaki Island residents.” She expressed gratitude to the community for their cooperation and support.
Engineer Arnold C. Santos, provincial director of the provincial science and technology office in Pangasinan, explained that the desalination facility is a direct response to the community’s urgent need for clean water, as identified in a needs assessment conducted in March 2023. The project aims to provide a reliable water source, eliminating the need for residents to travel long distances and spend significant amounts on water.
“This is a priceless gift from DOST 1,” remarked Bolinao, Pangasinan Mayor Alfonso F. Celeste. He emphasized the significance of this first-of-its-kind solar-powered desalination facility in the region, particularly for Silaki Island. The mayor urged the community to cherish this vital resource and ensure its long-term sustainability.
To ensure the safety and quality of the water processed in the desalination facility, the water has undergone rigorous testing by Hydrolab Company, a reputable water testing laboratory accredited by the Department of Health and recognized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Dignitaries were the first to drink the desalinated water, setting an example for the community and demonstrating its safety and purity.
Binabalian Barangay Captain Rufo T. Caasi Sr., and engineer Olan Roy Celzo, Waterworks System superintendent I of LGU Bolinao, pledged the local government’s commitment to maintaining and operating the desalination facility. They expressed hope for future innovations and projects that would further improve the lives of their beloved community.
Opening opportunities: Tabaog envisions a future where the desalination process can yield additional benefits. She highlighted the potential for salt production using the brine byproduct. Mayor Celeste echoed Tabaog’s sentiments, expressing surprise at the nation’s heavy reliance on imported salt. This shortage has resulted in a heavy reliance on salt imports, with over 93 percent of the country’s annual salt consumption coming from countries like Australia and China.
Through a strong partnership between DOST 1, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, LGU Bolinao, and the Rotary Club of Bolinao, Pangasinan will truly live up to its name, “panag-asin-an,” as a place where salt is made. Dr. Teresita Tabaog emphasized the crucial role of collaboration, stating, “We will not achieve this without the support of our partners. Collaboration will be key to our success.”
