CURRENT STATUS OF THE WATER QUALITY OF VERDE ISLAND PASSAGE IN LOBO, B ATANGAS PROVINCE, PHILIPPINES

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the current status of water quality of Verde Island Passage in Lobo. The researchers evaluat ed the water quality of Verde Island Passage in terms of 14 parameters such as color, turbidity, pH, temperature, DO, BOD, tss, oil and grease, nitrate, phosphate, copper, lead, mercury and total coliform which were determined using the Standard Methods fo r Examination of Water and Wastewater (SMEW). Composite water samples were taken from approximately one kilometer from the shoreline of the five sampling stations namely Brgy. Banalo, Brgy. Masaguitsit and Fabrica, Brgy. Lagadlarin and Olo olo, Brgy. Sawan g and Soloc, and Malabrigo of Verde Island Passage of Lobo. These parameters were analyzed by an accredited Analytical Testing Laboratory of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Results of this study were compared per sampling stations, based on the standards criteria set by the DENR and to the results the study conducted in 2009 by Gonzales et al. Results showed that the physico chemical properties in terms of color, phosphate, copper and mercury values are the same for the five sampling stations. While the values of turbidity, temperature, tss, pH, DO, oil and grease, BOD, nitrate, lead and total coliform varied. Based on the analysis of the 14 parameters, Verde Island Passage along Lobo Coast did not conform the standards set by DAO 34 90 for Class SB. The value of oil and grease in 2009 was improved as compared to its present values for each sampling station. Verde Island Passage along Lobo Coast was polluted in terms of lead.