According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in developing countries such as the Philippines, water-borne diseases, diarrhea, in particular, remains to be one of the top illnesses and causes of death. At least 55 Filipinos die every day due to water-borne-related diseases based on health studies. This health concern can be controlled by improving hygiene, water supply, and sanitation; hence, the urgent call for an effective wastewater collection program.

Out of the households surveyed in 2010, the City Health Office recorded that 544 households in Naga City or roughly 2% use “unsanitary toilet” whereas 714 or 2.5% don’t have it in their homes. These pose a threat not only to public health but also to our drinking water since most households were situated in the upper barangay where our main sources originate.

Mandated by PD 198, the Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD), exists for another essential purpose, which is to provide, maintain, and operate wastewater collection treatment and disposal. In response to this mandate and as provided by the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 (R.A. No. 9275), MNWD developed one of its pioneering projects – the Septage Management Program.

The MNWD Septage Management Project has a general aim to integrate water quality management pursuant to the provisions of the said Clean Water Act for economic growth in a manner consistent with the protection, preservation, and revival of fresh, brackish, and marine waters. The project shall cover all buildings and structures whether public or private, residential or commercial with service connection provided by the MNWD.

At present, the main facility at Sito Caromatig, Brgy. Carolina, Naga City is already at 93% completion. Other necessary works are being closely monitored before its full operation by early 2021. Four (4) septic sludge vacuum trucks were likewise acquired with capacities at 5 and 10 cubic meters.

Meanwhile, an ongoing survey is being conducted by our personnel to identify the exact location and other details of the septic tank on all active water service connections which started last August 12 followed by a project commissioning that commenced on October 5, 2020. These steps are being undertaken by MNWD to ensure all systems and components meet the operational requirements prior to implementation.

To help ease the payment for the service, MNWD started its collection of the septage fee in 2019 for a minimal amount of ₱1.53 per cubic meter of water consumed but not to exceed the flat rate of ₱2,245.10 for non-consumers who will avail of the services. (APVSGonzales)

MNWD’s Septage Treatment Facility located at Sitio Caromatig, Brgy. Carolina, Naga City, a program initiated last August 7, 2019 nearing its full completion.

Project commissioning of the Septage Management Program started on October to ensure efficient and effective operation during actual implementation in 2021.