N. Ecija exec urges DENR probe on improper septage waste disposal

CABANATUAN City, Nueva Ecija – 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.

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.

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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.

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“I challenge the DENR to investigate these septage facilities because if we are already struggling with solid waste management, we should be even more concerned about water,” Umali said.

His concerns stemmed from discussions on proposals involving the disposal of untreated wastewater from septage treatment facilities. He noted that many LGUs and water districts have yet to fully comply with their obligations in delivering proper wastewater management services.

Umali warned that inadequate monitoring and regulation could lead to groundwater contamination, affecting rivers, dams and other water sources, while increasing health risks in communities.

“There is a need for us to check all LGUs, whether the waste disposal is under the control of local governments, water districts, or private operators. The important question is where these septic wastes are being disposed of and whether they are being properly treated,” he said.

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Proper septage management is a critical component of environmental protection and public health, and failure to address the issue could result in more illnesses and environmental degradation, the governor stressed.

The concern has also been raised in neighboring Pampanga, where the Provincial Mayors’ League last year approved a resolution suspending the collection of septage fees pending a performance and environmental audit of service providers with DENR assistance.

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Apalit Mayor Oscar “Jun” Tetangco Jr. approved a municipal resolution adopting the league’s position, while Angeles City Mayor Carmelo B. Lazatin II issued an executive order suspending septage fee collection upon assuming office.

Despite these measures, Umali noted that no significant progress has been reported in resolving issues related to the collection, treatment and proper disposal of septic waste, prompting renewed calls for stricter enforcement and closer oversight. /jpv

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