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Sunday, January 20, 2008
Cyanide, mercury found in Tublay River
BAGUIO CITY -- Water pollution found its way to river tributaries in a town in Benguet, known for its production of chayote and eco-tourism potential.
Improper waste disposal, use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides and waste from the old Sto Niño mines, which used to operate in the area are said to be the source of the pollutants.
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In a study conducted by the biology department of the College of Arts and Sciences of the University of the Cordilleras (CAS-UC), traces of mercury and cyanide were discovered in water samples from river tributaries at KM 17, Labey Creek, Mamuyod A. Palso, Upper Patad-el, Sto. Niño 1, 2 and 3, Sapuan Creek, and Tabeyo.
"Although some of the water samples are non-genotoxic, some are safe only for watering ornamental plants and not for cooking or drinking. The contamination may not be visible in the short term, but these have long-lasting effects," Teresita Doctor of the CAS-UC said.
The traces of harmful chemicals in some of the town's water sources prompted Tublay Mayor Ruben Paoad to declare the implementation of a more vigorous screening on mining investors who want to explore the town as a potential mining site.
Paoad is against any mining activity within the municipality because of its adverse effects on the environment.
"From experience, we have learned mining communities in Benguet have not benefited economically from mine operations. Instead, they are now faced with health and environment problems," he said.
The same study showed Nalseb, Olman Kuros, Central, areas of Patad-el, Babaten, Aquique, Tabeyo and KM 16 have generally safe water sources.
The UC administration, through its president Jaime Buzar and CAS Dean Josefina Domingo, vowed to assist the affected community by hosting workshops on organic farming, coffee growing, barangay peace and order, local governance, proper waste segregation and disposal, and entrepreneurship and alternative livelihood training. (Rimaliza Opiña of Sun.Star Baguio/Sunnex)For more Philippine news, visit Sun.Star General Santos. (January 20, 2008 issue)
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