Manila: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) on Thursday urged local authorities in El Nido to accelerate and strengthen wastewater management as monitoring continues to show untreated discharges from drainage outfalls flowing into coastal waters, prompting a continued swimming ban, particularly in Bacuit Bay.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a site inspection, DENR-EMB Mimaropa Regional Director Joe Amil Salino stated that field inspections have repeatedly detected black untreated wastewater emerging from municipal drainage systems, particularly through outfalls connected to upstream drainage canals from residential houses. Salino noted that the EMB has been conducting dye-tracing operations for months to verify whether wastewater from establishments is properly reaching sewage treatment plants or bypassing treatment systems.
Salino explained that Notices of Violations (NOVs) have already been issued to establishments found bypassing wastewater systems, with cases potentially elevated to the Pollution Adjudication Board, which can impose penalties or closure orders under the Clean Water Act. He emphasized that household wastewater and drainage management remain under the responsibility of local government units, which he said must act more decisively.
Meanwhile, El Nido Municipal Mayor Edna Gacot Lim clarified that the LGU is pushing for a cluster tank and treatment system to address the wastewater concerns. She cited that approvals and site issues have slowed implementation, particularly since El Nido is a protected area. Lim requested the DENR for fast approval of permits once the LGU submits them to the agency.
Due to persistently high coliform levels, Salino stated that swimming remains prohibited across Bacuit Bay, the only area affected by the untreated wastewater. He added that warning signs have been placed and tourists are being advised to avoid swimming in the bay, while noting that water quality in island destinations remains generally good.
Salino emphasized that protecting El Nido's coastal waters requires faster action from all stakeholders, especially in addressing long-standing drainage and wastewater infrastructure gaps.
