The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) alongside the Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) Rizal partnered with the local government of Rodriguez to conduct a 3-day water sampling activity in Barangays Mascap and Puray.
This initiative is part of DOST’s Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program, which aims to provide communities with limited access to safe drinking water.
PSTO Rizal identified 10 sites for sample collection from springs, deep wells, and river reservoirs and prior to the activity, the team ensured proper procedures were observed.
The team was divided into three groups, each tasked with collecting water samples from specific sources – springwaters (poso), deepwells (balon), and river reservoirs.
Five water sources were collected in Brgy. Mascap on the first day, and another five in Brgy. Puray on the second day.
The collected water samples were delivered to the DOST CALABARZON’s Regional Standards and Testing Laboratory (RSTL) for microbiological testing, including heterotrophic plate count and total fecal/coliform count.
These test results will determine the necessary interventions to ensure the communities have access to safe drinking water.
In the long-term, the CEST program’s water quality monitoring efforts aims to contribute to the sustainable development of Rodriguez and other communities by creating a healthier and more productive environment for residents.
