Addressing the challenge of the scarcity of potable water on Cobrador Island, the Department of Science and Technology - MIMAROPA (DOST-MIMAROPA) through the Provincial Science and Technology Office-Romblon (PSTO-Romblon) has launched there a Water Desalination facility, providing potable water for residents who rely mostly on wells, streams, or collected rainfall. Governor Jose R. Riano (from left), DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., Congressman Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona, and DOST-MIMAROPA Regional Director Ma. Josefina P. Abilay. (At the back, from left to right) Brgy. Captain Juan Dela Cruz, Mayor Gerard Montojo, PSTO- Romblon Director Marcelina V. Servañez, and Vice Mayor Mariano Mateo lead the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the water desalination facility. (Photo courtesy DOST-MIMAROPA/Manila Bulletin) Cobrador Island, the farthest among the three islands in Romblon, is known for its breathtaking crystal-clear seawater and pristine white sandy beaches. This newly-installed technology aims to convert seawater into potable water, providing a continuous supply of safe and clean water to the residents and alleviating the water shortage on the island. According to DOST-MIMAROPA, during the Technology Needs Assessment conducted by PSTO-Romblon, it was revealed that some residents consumed water collected from their gutters or water drums, even in the presence of mosquito larvae. "Despite the health risks associated with such water sources, the scarcity of potable water on the island has compelled them to resort to these unsanitary options," the agency said. Other residents have no other option but to purchase mineral water from the mainland, which requires an hour-long boat trip. This incurs additional costs for transportation and labor, making it unaffordable for many residents, especially those who rely solely on fishing for their income. “Yung mga may kaya ay bumibili nalang ng mineral water sa mainland, 40 pesos isang galon. Napakagastos po nito at idagdag pa ang isang oras na biyahe via boat na balikan. Samantala, yung mga sapat lang ang income ay patuloy na nagtitiis sa madilaw at maalat na tubig (Those financially capable buy mineral water from the mainland which costs P40 per gallon. This is costly considering the additional 1 hour boat ride. On the other hand, those who only have enough live on yellowish and salty water),” said Elvie Menciano, Barangay Kagawad of Cobrador Island. DOST-MIMAROPA, in collaboration with the Local Government of Romblon, they installed the Water Desalination System project funded by DOST. This project was initially introduced in 2021 in the province of Marinduque. The inauguration of the project was attended by DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr., DOST Undersecretary of Regional Operations Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST-MIMAROPA Regional Director Dr. Ma. Josefina P. Abilay, Congressman Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona, Governor Jose R. Riano, Mayor Gerard S. Montojo, Vice Mayor Mariano M. Mateo, PSTO-Romblon Director Marcelina V. Servañez, and Barangay Captain Juan Dela Cruz. DOST Secretary Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. checks the water desalination facility with key officials. (DOST-MIMAROPA/Manila Bulletin) The project includes water gallons and will benefit 1000 residents on the island. With the affordable price of water, residents will be able to save money for equally important needs. Additionally, the island barangay will generate income from this project by selling each container for P20. The income will be used for facility maintenance and the salaries of the two workers managing the facility. "This is about the start of the change in the lives of 1000 residents who will be eased from the fear of suffering from water-borne diseases and 1000 residents who are given the opportunity for empowerment and increased production that will lead to boosting economic activities in the barangay and eventually in the municipality, the province, and MIMAROPA as a whole," said r Abilay. This project is part of Phase 2 of the Community Empowerment Through Science and Technology (CEST) project by DOST-MIMAROPA. CEST is a program that empowers poor communities through science and technology interventions in areas including but not limited to health and nutrition, environmental protection and conservation, livelihood, human resource development, and disaster risk reduction and management. Now, the residents of Cobrador Island can finally gain access to clean, safe, and affordable water. The water produced by the desalination system ensures that the residents have a continuous and reliable supply of water, improving their overall well-being and addressing the water scarcity issue on the island.