Baguio Orders Closure of 11 Deep Wells, 9 Refilling Stations Due to Poor Water Quality

BAGUIO CITY — The city’s Environmental Health and Sanitation Division (EHSD) has ordered the temporary closure of several commercial water providers and food establishments after they failed bacteriological water quality tests conducted from January to June this year, according to a statement by the Baguio City Public Information Office (PIO) on Tuesday. A report from EHSD department head Albert Pay-an says it inspected 31 commercial deep wells, of which 11 failed bacteriological testing. The report also says nine purified water refilling stations and 25 water delivery services have failed quality tests. READ: Baguio City orders crackdown on unsafe water suppliers Among food establishments, 10 failed bacteriological tests conducted on their service water, while 21 failed tests for ice cubes served with beverages. Pay-an said sanitary orders were immediately issued directing the affected establishments to suspend operations, conduct corrective maintenance, undergo retesting, and submit laboratory results before they are allowed to resume operations. To strengthen compliance, commercial deep well operators also attended a technical orientation on the proper operation and maintenance of chlorination systems. Pay-an said water businesses are required to undergo monthly bacteriological testing. Those that fail an initial test are ordered to cease operations and carry out sanitation and maintenance measures. They may resume operations only after passing a subsequent laboratory test. The city government is also continuing its crackdown on illegal operators. According to Pay-an, nine water refilling stations found operating without business permits have been scheduled for closure by the City Permits and Licensing Division in the coming days. Maureen Matayew/Contributor/coa