2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 13
Available Online: 19 May 2026
Author/s:
Apolinar, Jenny V.*
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Philippines (jenny.apolinar@cbsua.edu.ph)
Alburo, Carlo V.
Campo, Richelda P.
Francisco, Ma. Theresa D.
Francisco, Mary Joy D.
Gomez, Mildred V.
Leona, Emelyn
Nacion, Sheila Mae M.
Moron, Bernyl M.
Nolasco, Michael N.
Abstract:
This study used a quantitative descriptive design to evaluate the baseline water quality of the Canal De Pasacao River in Pasacao, Camarines Sur, and to identify environmental pressures across upstream (Barangay Quitang), midstream (Odicon), and downstream (Sta. Rosa Del Norte) stations. Water samples were analyzed for physical, chemical, and microbiological parameters through in situ measurements and accredited laboratory testing, following DENR-EMB Water Quality Monitoring Manual guidelines. Results were interpreted using DAO 2016-08 standards. Findings revealed that temperature, total suspended solids, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, color, and fecal coliform levels complied with standards. Phosphate and nitrate levels were above guideline values, indicating nutrient enrichment. Biochemical oxygen demand failed at the midstream station, while chloride concentrations rose markedly downstream. Contributing factors include domestic discharges, agricultural runoff, livestock activities, and Increasing human settlement along riverbanks. Based on these results, the river aligns with Class C classification under DAO 2016-08 suitable for fisheries, irrigation, and secondary contact recreation, but not for direct human consumption. These findings underscore the need for strengthened waste management systems, routine water quality surveillance, and community-driven conservation strategies to protect the ecological integrity of the Canal De Pasacao River.
Keywords: water quality assessment, physico-chemical parameters, biological parameters, DAO 2016-08, river classification
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26208
Cite this article:
Apolinar, J. V., Alburo, C. V., Campo, R. P., Francisco, M. T. D., Francisco, M. J. D., Gomez, M. V., Leona, E., Nacion, S. M. M., Moron, B. M., & Nolasco, M. N. (2026). Water quality assessment: A baseline study of Canal de Pasacao in Pasacao Camarines Sur. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(13), 15-32. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26208
* Corresponding Author