Ang Pahayagan

AURORA — The Provincial Government of Aurora has received a PHP2.24-million grant from the Department of Science and Technology Region III (DOST-III) for the establishment of the Aurora Standard Testing Laboratory, a project aimed at ensuring safer and cleaner drinking water for residents across the province.

Governor Isidro P. Galban personally accepted the ceremonial check amounting to PHP2,243,740.00 on Monday, October 13, 2025, at his office. He was joined by Dr. Myrna P. Nicer, Provincial Health Officer, who will lead the project’s implementation.

The grant was awarded through the Provincial Science and Technology Office of Aurora (PSTO-Aurora) under the leadership of Provincial S&T Director Maricel M. Sicat, as part of DOST’s Grants-in-Aid (GIA) Program. The project, titled “Promoting Compliance to Sanitation Standards through the Establishment of the Aurora Standard Testing Laboratory,” seeks to strengthen the province’s compliance with national water regulatory standards.

Once completed, the facility will provide microbial testing services to assess and ensure the safety of potable water throughout Aurora. It is expected to serve both public and private establishments that require water analysis—contributing to improved public health, sanitation, and environmental safety across communities.

Under the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between DOST and the Provincial Government of Aurora, the project will be implemented within one year following the release of funds.

Governor Galban expressed his deep gratitude to DOST-III and PSTO-Aurora for their continued support and partnership.

“This project is a significant step toward achieving our vision of a healthier and more vibrant Aurora — a province with SIGLA in health and GALAK in community development,” said Governor Galban, emphasizing the provincial government’s commitment to improving health standards and ensuring access to safe drinking water for all Aurorans.

The establishment of the Aurora Standard Testing Laboratory marks a major milestone in the province’s drive to enhance health services and environmental management through science-based and sustainable initiatives.

The Department of Science and Technology Region III (DOST-III), through the Provincial Science and Technology Office of Aurora (PSTO-Aurora) headed by Provincial S&T Director Maricel M. Sicat, awarded the check to the Provincial Government of Aurora for the project “Promoting Compliance to Sanitation Standards through the Establishment of the Aurora Standard Testing Laboratory.”

The project, amounting to PHP2,243,740.00 under the Grants-in-Aid (GIA) Program, aims to strengthen compliance with water regulatory standards by providing microbial testing for potable water. It is expected to cater to all establishments in Aurora requiring water analysis, ensuring safer and cleaner water for all Aurorans.

On behalf of the Provincial Government of Aurora, Governor Isidro P. Galban received the check together with Dr. Myrna Nicer, Head of the Provincial Health Office and Project Leader. (Jason de Asis)