Pangasinan: A solar-powered water system equipped with reverse osmosis capacity is transforming the lives of approximately 700 households in Barangay Lepa and neighboring villages by providing affordable potable drinking water at just PHP5 per gallon. Barangay Captain Mark Escat emphasized the importance of the system, stating that it has become the primary source of clean drinking water for the residents.

According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative has significantly reduced the cost of water for locals, allowing them to save PHP20 per gallon compared to commercial water refilling stations. The revenue generated from the sales is allocated for the facility's maintenance, with regular monthly inspections ensuring the water remains safe for consumption. Escat highlighted the additional benefits of the system, noting that the wastewater produced is repurposed by residents for laundry, watering plants, and other household chores.

The project extends its benefits to surrounding villages, including Umando, San Julian, Aliaga, and Palong. Additionally, students of Lepa Elementary School receive free potable drinking water, courtesy of the village council, which does not charge them for usage. The solar-powered water system, valued at over PHP9 million, was financed under the 2023 national budget and executed by the Department of Public Works and Highways. It features an overhead tank and a water refilling station capable of producing purified drinking water.