A solar-powered water system with reverse osmosis capacity has been benefiting some 700 households in Barangay Lepa and neighboring villages, providing potable drinking water for just PHP5 per gallon.

Barangay Captain Mark Escat said the water system has been the source of potable drinking water for residents.

“Nakakatulong sa lahat sa amin. Nakakabawas sa budget dahil PHP5 per gallon lang (It is very helpful to all of us. It cuts costs since water refill here is only PHP5 per gallon),” Escat said in an interview on Monday.

Residents save PHP20 per gallon, compared to commercial water refilling stations. Sales cover facility maintenance.

“We maintain the facility with a monthly inspection to ensure that it remains clean and safe for drinking,” Escat said.

Waste water from the process is also used by residents for laundry, watering plants and other chores.

Residents from neighboring villages, including Umando, San Julian, Aliaga and Palong, also benefit from the facility.

Learners of Lepa Elementary School likewise benefit from free potable drinking water as the village council does not charge them.

The project, worth over PHP9 million, was funded under the 2023 national budget and undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways.

It includes an overhead tank and a water refilling station capable of generating purified drinking water. (PNA)