Only nine of 35 sites in the municipality of Puerto Galera and its barangays passed the water quality test conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
In a joint statement issued on Monday, the DENR and Department of Health (DOH) said only Small Lalaguna and Big Lalaguna Shoreline, Balete, Central Sabang Shoreline, Coco Beach, Batangas Channel, Paniquian, Balatero, and West San Isidro Bay passed DENR's criteria for water quality guidelines on oil and grease contaminants.
But the two agencies noted that they will further study the possible source of contamination in the 26 areas that failed to meet the criteria, considering the presence of economic and human activities.
"In the interest of public health and safety, the DOH advises the public to exercise caution and refrain from consuming water from affected areas and when conducting water-related occupational (e.g. fishing, seaweed farming) and recreational activities," the DOH said, adding that the public should likewise avoid consuming any contaminated fish, shellfish, and other seafood products.
Meanwhile, the DOH and DENR advised concerned local government units (LGUs) to implement the "strictest environmental and health standards in order to ensure quick recovery of the affected areas."
"The DOH and DENR will continuously monitor the situation and will coordinate with the local government units for support," the agencies further said.
