‘Boracay coliform up’

Coliform bacteria levels in the waters of the world-famous Boracay Island were reported to have elevated.

Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago wanted the Senate to investigate the phenomenon.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB) warned about the high coliform levels in Boracay, specifically at the Bulabog Beach.

According to the EMB, the levels reached 47,460 most probable number (mpn) per 100 milliliter.

Coliform levels must not exceed 1,000 mpn per 100 ml for a body of water to be considered safe for swimming, the EMB reported.

Coliform bacteria are found mainly in human and animal waste, soil, and vegetation, the water-testing facility CNA Environmental said.

“DENR-EMB attributed the high level of coliform to domestic waste coming from residential and commercial establishments that fail to connect to sewer lines,” Santiago said in Resolution No. 1195, which seeks the Senate investigation.

The Ilonggo senator said the waste thus “go directly to drainage canals and empty into the coastal water.”

She urged the local government units concerned to strictly implement the “no discharge permit, no business permit” policy to compel business establishments to connect to the Boracay Island Water Company sewerage system.

“It is imperative for the government to maintain the cleanliness and safety of the waters of Boracay,” said Santiago. The island “contributes immensely to the country’s tourism revenues,” she said.

Santiago also cited Article 2, Section 16 of the Constitution, which provides that “the State shall protect and promote the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.”

Bulabog Beach is at the back portion of Boracay. The main attraction in the island resort is the White Beach.

It is at Bulabog Beach that several sports activities, including kiteboarding and windsurfing, are being held.

Meanwhile, the municipal government of Malay, which has jurisdiction over Boracay, sought to be enlightened on the DENR-EMB report.

Malay councilor Rowen Aguirre, chair of the municipal council committee on environment, said they do not want to make the tourists worry.

“Tourists should still enjoy frolicking and swimming (in Boracay),” said Aguirre. “We acknowledge the experts’ warning that coliform (at the Bulabog Beach) may spread to the (White Beach) if we do not act promptly.”

The Malay municipal government is currently coordinating with the Tourism Infrastructure Enterprise Zone Authority to put up more drainage systems in the island.