Coliform bacteria found in Panglao waters

The waters of Panglao Beach in Bohol have been found to be contaminated with coliform bacteria.

According to a report on Balitanghali by Katrina Son on Thursday, one of the reasons for the contamination could be the lack of waste water facility in the area.

Some local government officials said they would strictly monitor the sewerage facilities of the commercial beach resorts in the area.

"This time, we will be strictly implementing 'yung three to five chambers na kinakailangan. At the same time, 'yung malalaking resorts are required to have a sewerage treatment facility. 'Yan 'yung isa sa makakatulong para ma-prevent natin na hindi masisira 'yung shorelines natin," Councilor Rogelin Degoma said.

Coliform is a type of bacteria that come from the feces of humans or animals. It often causes diarrhea and other water-borne diseases that can be fatal to malnourished children.

However, Panglao Mayor Leonila Montero stressed that Panglao, a tourist destination, is still safe for vacationers who want to visit the place.

"I believe this is all political issues and Panglao is very safe for bathing and for our tourists. Walang investors na papatay sa goose that lays the golden egg. We spend so much for the investment sa Panglao. Panglao is so safe. Visit Panglao and let us enjoy the beauty of Panglao," Montero said.

Meanwhile, Boracay Island also has the same problem. Bulabog Beach in Boracay tested positive for coliform bacteria in 2015.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) committed to attend to this and Boracay's other problems—its drainage system and the presence of informal settlers.

DENR chief Roy Cimatu said they have conducted an aerial inspection of the island while DOT Secretary Wanda Teo vowed to finish the drainage system project before the year ends. —Anna Felicia Bajo /KG, GMA News