To prove the effectiveness of the water filtration system, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian and Palace Press Officer Usec. Claire Castro both drank a glass of clean water that emerged as a byproduct of the bucket-based contraption. (Photo courtesy: DSWD)
By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
Amid backlash from detractors and some netizens, Malacañang remained serious in its message to Filipinos calling for water conservation and rainwater collection efforts.
Capitalizing on President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s water buckets remark, Wednesday’s briefing revolved around DSWD showcasing how to use a bucket as a water filtration device.
In the demonstration, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian was assisted by Assistant Secretary Leo Quintilla as they showcased the capabilities of the DSWD Family Water Filtration Kit.
Secretary Gatchalian went on to discuss the health and safety aspect of the contraption, which has undergone Department of Health (DOH) certification and yielded water analysis results showing the membrane filter can achieve a 99.9999% removal rate.
However, he emphasized that proper maintenance remains paramount in ensuring the continued effectiveness of the filtration system.
This technology is one of the several interventions that the government has prepared to ensure water security amid expected drought due to El Niño, with the DSWD planning to bring it to communities through barangay-level information and demonstrations to help residents understand its proper use and maintenance.
The Social Welfare Chief wrapped up his media presentation with slides showcasing small water impounding projects, noting that approximately 5,000 have been established by the government since 2021. (with report from Clay Pardilla | PTV News)
jpv