Molocaboc Island in Sagay City has been identified as the pilot site for a proposed P8.5-million desalination project of the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI), in coordination with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) under the Department of Agriculture.
The project, expected to be implemented within two years, will involve the construction of a desalination facility with a production area of around 300 to 500 square meters, marking the first pilot initiative of its kind in the country, a press release from Sagay City said Tuesday, March 3.
A technical team composed of Riza Banicod, senior science research specialist, Gezelle Todifa and Cherie May Busalla, science research specialists of NFRDI, Derelyn Villan, agriculturist, and Froilan Dela Cruz, officer-in-charge provincial fishery officer of BFAR-NIR, paid a courtesy visit to Mayor Leo Rafael M. Cueva at the City Government Center to formally present the proposed project and conduct an initial assessment.
They were joined by Sagay City Agriculturist Julie Delima during the presentation.
The initiative is designed to address limited freshwater access in island barangays by producing potable drinking water, while also generating rock salt as a secondary output that can be developed into an alternative livelihood for local residents, the press release said.
The technical team noted that the presence of organized local associations in Barangay Molocaboc strengthens the island’s suitability as a pilot site, ensuring community participation and effective project implementation.
Once completed, the facility is expected to serve as a model for possible replication in other coastal and island communities nationwide.
Cueva expressed support for the project and emphasized the importance of fast-tracking its implementation, citing its long-term impact on water security and livelihoods.
The team identified the Sagay City Local Government Unit’s counterpart as support for electricity connection, water system construction, and other basic utilities.
Cueva said the project is timely following the extension of electricity service to Molocaboc Island in December last year, while the technical team added that a backup generator set will be provided to ensure continuous operation.
After the courtesy visit, the team proceeded to Molocaboc Island for site validation and assessment, accompanied by Punong Barangay Rocky Pasaylo, Engr. Lawrence Dy of the City Engineer’s Office, along with Faith Tajanlangit and Ariel Gison of City Agriculture Office.*
[sibwp_form id=1]