TARLAC CITY (PIA) -- Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has installed a mobile water treatment system for the Abelling tribal community in Sitio Socorro in Barangay Moriones, San Jose, Tarlac.

The P1.27-million Safe Water Treatment System: Emergency Disinfection System of Drinking Water (SAFEWTRS) project was funded under the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program. 

DOST Provincial Director Karen Dañez said SAFEWTRS is a solar-powered, manually operated, and compact mobile water treatment system that can generate at least 200 liters of drinkable water per hour. 

“We, at DOST, will continue to provide solutions to community problems through technological breakthroughs and innovation. Some of our communities here in the province still lack access to clean water, hence, this project was conceptualized. This project is essential in building healthy individuals which is a cornerstone of a progressive community,” she pressed.

The mobile water treatment system, also useful in isolated locations with limited water supply, is equipped with a battery system that can supply needed electricity.

This technology addresses the issue of lack of clean drinking water during disasters such as typhoons, floods, and earthquakes. 

Prior to the members of the Abelling tribe, DOST turned-over a similar water system to San Clemente town. DOST will likewise provide another unit to Bamban town within the year. 

CEST program facilitates the transfer of technologies to identified communities along the areas of education, health and nutrition, water and sanitation, disaster risk reduction, and industry development or livelihood. (CLJD/TJBM-PIA 3)