2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 9
Available Online: 5 May 2026
Author/s:
Pamarang, Christopher*
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture – Pasacao, Philippines (christopherjr.pamarang@cbsua.edu.ph)
Panganiban, Dave
Diolola, Joven
Peña, Arlyn
Estacion, Alberto Miguel
Robrigado, Clarence Matthew
Hernandez, Hannie Lyn
France, Jessa
Moron, Bernyl
Nolasco, Michael
Abstract:
This study employed a qualitative descriptive research design to assess the current water quality status of Sitio Sarimao, Pasacao, Camarines Sur, and to identify potential sources of contamination across three selected sampling sites. Water samples were analyzed for physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters, with emphasis on Fecal Coliform. The investigation followed the Environmental Management Bureau–Department of Environment and Natural Resources (EMB–DENR) Water Quality Monitoring Manual (Volume I and II), utilizing in situ measurements and analyses conducted by accredited government laboratories. Results were evaluated against the standards set by DAO2016-08. Findings revealed that two sampling sites complied with both physicochemical and microbiological standards, while one site passed only the physical and chemical criteria but failed the microbiological requirement. Moreover, observed potential contamination sources included saltwater intrusion, livestock discharge, and land use/urbanization, all occurring within the 25-meter minimum setback for water sources. The study concludes that although two sites were classified as potable, the presence of these contamination risks poses significant threats, particularly at Station 1, which is more vulnerable to saltwater intrusion and livestock discharge, and Station 2, which is susceptible to contamination from residential activities and livestock presence. Furthermore, these findings underscore the need for continuous monitoring and community-based management to safeguard local water resources.
Keywords: EMB–DENR, DAO2016-08, fecal coliform, saltwater intrusion, contamination sources
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26143
Cite this article:
Pamarang, C., Panganiban, D., Diolola, J., Peña, A., Estacion, A. M., Robrigado, C. M., Hernandez, H. L., France, J., Moron, B., & Nolasco, M. (2026). Assessment of potable water quality in Sitio Sarimao, Pasacao, Camarines Sur: Physicochemical and microbiological analysis. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(9), 253-270. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26143
* Corresponding Author