DOST, BJMP launch P2.7-M water project for Camarines Norte jails

By Rhaydz Barcia

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Science and Technology in Bicol (DOST-5) and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) have launched Project Aqua, a three-year initiative to provide safe drinking water to persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) and jail personnel in two correctional facilities in Camarines Norte.

Joefrie B. Anglo, BJMP Bicol public information officer, said DOST-5, led by regional director Rommel R. Serrano, and the BJMP regional office, headed by Jail Senior Superintendent Jose Gemelo C. Taol, partnered to implement the project.

Under a memorandum of agreement between the two agencies, DOST-5 is providing a ₱2.7-million grant through its Local Grants-in-Aid program to support the initiative.

Anglo said the project will install water treatment systems, drinking water stations, and backup generators at the Labo District Jail and Daet District Jail Annex.

The provincial government of Camarines Norte has also committed ₱300,000 for the construction of a permanent structure to house and protect the equipment.

Anglo said Project Aqua aims to harness science and technology to address the basic needs of correctional facilities and improve the living and working conditions of PDLs and jail personnel.

Once operational, the water treatment systems are expected to provide a more reliable supply of safe drinking water at the two facilities and help ensure humane custodial conditions.

Anglo told Bicol Mail that the initiative marks a significant expansion of the collaboration between DOST-Bicol and BJMP, which had previously included educational and livelihood support for PDLs.

The project underscores the role of government partnerships in applying science and technology to improve essential services and promote the welfare of people in custodial facilities.