For decades, the 213 households of Danao-Danao Island lived in daily struggle over water scarcity. Residents often paid up to P70 a day for a few containers or traveled 30 minutes by pump boat to fetch water from neighboring islands. Now, that hardship is over thanks to a solar-powered desalination system delivering clean, safe water straight to their homes.
Sixty-six-year-old Edna Patiño shared the daily challenges of her family. “Our water situation has always been so hard. We were happy when it rained because that meant we could wash clothes. But when it didn’t, even bathing the kids meant using just two containers of water,” she said.
The P12.8-million system, implemented under the Philippine Rural Development Project, serves 854 residents across Danao-Danao and nearby communities Himulat, Danao, Pasil, and Punta Imo. It features a 16-cubic-meter concrete water tank, water treatment facility, 36 solar panels, and desalination equipment capable of producing 11,000 liters daily at 99.4% purity—enough to meet all households’ daily needs while cutting water costs by 50%.
“This project is part of Governor Arthur Defensor Jr.’s priorities. You no longer have to travel to another island just to buy water,” said Provincial Administrator Raul Banas. Previously, only 37 percent of the island population had access to safe water.
The system is managed by the Danao-Danao Solar Powered Potable Water Association (DASSOPPWAS), whose members were trained in operations, maintenance, and bookkeeping. “We established rules and accounting procedures to ensure smooth operations so everyone benefits,” said DASSOPPWAS Secretary Domain Salvaria.
Engr. Romeo Andig, Chief of the Provincial Engineering Office, highlighted the importance of the project for public health: “Safe and readily available water is critical—whether for drinking, cooking, or sanitation. This system ensures the community can live healthier and more productive lives.”
The facility also supports Iloilo’s renewable energy initiatives under the Iloilo Pro-GReEn Program, aligning with the province’s commitment to sustainable, solar-powered solutions. A 15-KVA generator ensures continuous operation during low sunlight periods.
For residents like Patiño, the system is life-changing. “Finally, we have water at home. We no longer have to struggle every day,” she said, smiling as the first clean water flowed into her household—a small miracle bringing hope, health, and a brighter future to the community.IMT
