Over 4,000 residents of Calituban Island in Bohol stand to benefit from the P12.85 million solar-powered desalination system, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said. 

DILG Central Visayas Regional Director Leocadio Trovela hoped that the project would serve as a model for other island communities facing similar challenges in obtaining potable water supply.

"This initiative demonstrates how innovation and collaboration can transform lives. We look forward to seeing its success replicated in other areas in need," Trovela said.

He praised the gender-sensitive approach of the project, recognizing its impact on women traditionally responsible for water collection.

Funded by the DILG-Growth Equity Fund (GEF) 2023, the solar-powered desalination system is called the project a “game-changer” as it is likewise expected to provide additional savings for island families who used to spent up to P900 a month on drinking water.

Talibon municipal Mayor Janette Garcia highlighted the challenges of securing land for the project and stressed the need for similar initiatives in five other island barangays of the said town.