THE DEPARTMENT of Science and Technology, the local government of Naval and the Biliran Province State University joined hands to provide drinking water to island residents who travel by sea just to get potable water.

The three institutions partnered and installed a water purification system in Barangay Mabini, Higatangan Island in Naval, Biliran whose residents have to  travel by sea for an hour to purchase drinking water.

“This project was realized to help combat water-borne diseases that can be acquired specifically by children. Thus, residents of two Naval barangays, Mabini and Libertad’s safe drinking water concern [have] been addressed,” BiPSU said.

Officials from the DOST, BiPSU, and the School of Engineering and Physical Development Office of the Naval LGU attended the launch of the project.

DOST sought BiPSU’s help in identifying the pressing problems in the island.

“Water on the island is only suitable for bathing, washing, and cleaning,” BiPSU said on Facebook.

It added that the island also lacks electricity.