Manila: Nueva Ecija Gov. Aurelio "Oyie" Umali has called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to investigate septage waste disposal practices, warning that weak enforcement of the Clean Water Act could endanger public health and water resources.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a recent meeting of the Central Luzon Regional Development Council (RDC), Umali raised concerns over what he described as a "silent crisis" involving improper septic waste management. Umali, who chairs the RDC Infrastructure Development Committee, urged the DENR to determine whether LGUs, water districts, and private operators are complying with Republic Act 9275 (Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004), particularly on septage treatment and disposal.
Umali challenged the DENR to investigate these septage facilities, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues related to water management alongside solid waste management. His concerns stemmed from discussions on proposals involving the disposal of untreated wastewater from septage treatment facilities, noting that many LGUs and water districts have yet to fully comply with their obligations in delivering proper wastewater management services.
He warned that inadequate monitoring and regulation could lead to groundwater contamination, affecting rivers, dams, and other water sources, while increasing health risks in communities. Umali stressed the need to check all LGUs regarding the control and treatment of septic waste, whether managed by local governments, water districts, or private operators.
Proper septage management is critical to both environmental protection and public health. Failure to address this issue could result in more illnesses and environmental degradation, the governor emphasized. The concern has also been raised in neighboring Pampanga, where the Provincial Mayors' League approved a resolution suspending the collection of septage fees pending a performance and environmental audit of service providers with DENR assistance.
Apalit Mayor Oscar "Jun" Tetangco Jr. supported this initiative with a municipal resolution, and Angeles City Mayor Carmelo B. Lazatin II issued an executive order suspending septage fee collection upon assuming office. Despite these measures, Umali noted the lack of significant progress in resolving issues related to the collection, treatment, and proper disposal of septic waste, prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement and closer oversight.
