Environmental Case

Study Analysis

PRESERVING THE
WATER QUALITY
OF ILOILO CITY:
DEWATS of the Public Abattoir
and Iloilo Mission Hospital

SECTION: BSMT-2B

NAME: Carlos, Angeline

Daet, Sheira Mae G.

PROFESSOR: Ms. Jenny Lyn C. Chua,

M.Sc., MA, LPT

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Preserving the Water Quality of
Iloilo City: DEWATS of the Public
Abattoir and Iloilo Mission Hospital
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Iloilo River, a 15-kilometer estuarine, faces ecological degradation primarily
due to untreated sewage from 121 out of 180 barangays in Iloilo City. The absence of a
sewerage system and reliance on poorly maintained septic tanks contribute to low
dissolved oxygen levels, signaling environmental decline.
To address this, the Local Government Unit (LGU) participated in the LINAW
Project, funded by the USAID. The project aimed to implement strategic interventions for
sanitation development. Key components included technical assistance, participatory
planning, information dissemination, and public awareness campaigns.
The beneficiaries of the project, with a population of 418,710, witnessed a surge
in business establishments and high purchasing power. However, environmental
concerns prompted the LGU to focus on sanitation.
The LINAW Program, launched in 2005, employed awareness campaigns, river
cleanups, and a River Watch program to combat water pollution. Social marketing
strategies engaged academic institutions and facilitated the construction of low-cost
treatment facilities, such as Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems (DEWATS).
Two notable DEWATS implementations were at the city abattoir and Iloilo Mission
Hospital, showcasing successful low-cost, low-maintenance models. The facilities
significantly reduced odor, organic load, and contamination in discharged wastewater.
Methane recovery was employed, contributing to monthly savings.
The LINAW Project's impact extended beyond the initial beneficiaries, fostering a
synergy among various stakeholders, including hospitals, hotels, markets, and
restaurants. Joint water quality testing enhanced understanding of pollution contributions
and solutions.
While the LGU invested in the project, highlighting a commitment to water quality
management, challenges remain. Ongoing efforts, guided by the LINAW Project,
contribute to preserving the Iloilo River, setting an example for sustainable sanitation
practices in the region.

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II. INTRODUCTION
The Iloilo River is one of the most important bodies of water in Iloilo City. It is a
source of livelihood as it houses numerous sea foods such as Bangus, Tilapia, and
the rare emerald shrimp, metapenaeus insolitus. It also houses 22 out of the 35
mangrove species in the Philippines that contributes to the environment of the city as
well as tourism. However, it faces ecological degradation from different human
activities, especially the untreated wastewater that flows from residential and
commercial facilities directly into the river. Therefore, to combat this, the city
government launched in June 2005, the “LINAW Project'' funded by the United States
Agency for International Development (USAID) with the primary objective to “improve
the water quality management by local government” with the use of low-cost sanitation
technology.

The LINAW Project is owned by the City Government of Iloilo, the Iloilo River
Development Council, and the Iloilo Mission Hospital. In partnership with the United
States Agency for International Development and the Basic Need Services
Philippines, Inc. The main target of this project is to create a Decentralized Wastewater
Treatment System (DEWATS) in public facilities such as the Public Abattoir and the
Iloilo Mission Hospital.

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 III. PROBLEM STATEMENT
The Iloilo River, a vital estuarine ecosystem spanning 15 kilometers, faces significant
challenges stemming from human activities. Despite its importance as a nursery for crucial
fish species and home to diverse mangrove and shrimp species, the river ecosystem is
under threat.

 Ecological Impact
The human-induced changes in the Iloilo River ecosystem are substantial. Of the
180 barangays in Iloilo City, 35 are situated along the river, contributing to a varied
land use mix. Residential, commercial, institutional, open space, fishpond,
transport, and mangrove areas surround different sections of the river. While some
areas cater to fishery activities and fishpond cultivation, others host a combination
of commercial buildings, offices, and residential structures.

 Sewage Contamination
The most pressing issue is the rampant discharge of untreated sewage into the
river. A staggering 121 out of 180 barangays within Iloilo City, along with 51
barangays outside the city, contribute to this problem. The absence of a
comprehensive sewerage system forces reliance on on-site treatments like poorly
constructed and maintained septic tanks. The prohibitive costs associated with
establishing and maintaining a conventional sewerage system further compound
the challenge of controlling untreated sewage.

 Dissolved Oxygen Depletion

A two-year study by the University of the Philippines in the Visayas (UPV) has
revealed a concerning decline in dissolved oxygen levels within the Iloilo River.
This evidence substantiates the ecological degradation of the river system,
highlighting the urgency of addressing the factors contributing to its decline.

In summary, the Iloilo River faces imminent threats from widespread land use changes,
untreated sewage discharge, and declining dissolved oxygen levels. Urgent measures are
required to mitigate these issues and preserve the ecological balance of this vital estuarine
ecosystem.

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IV. DATA PRESENTATION
A. Profile of the Beneficiaries
a. Total Population
The total population of Iloilo City according to the 2007 census is
418, 710 which includes bona fide residents only excluding transients who
only work in the province.

b. Business Establishments
A total of 8,407 business establishments are in Iloilo City as of
December 2003 wherein, 1, 182 are new. The total capital investments for
the year 2003 is at 295.9 Million US dollars with 8,306,955 US dollars of it
utilized by the new businesses.

Figure 1: Proportion of Business Establishments in Iloilo City as of

December 2003.

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 Figure 2: Proportion of Capital Investments of Business
Establishments in Iloilo City in the year 2003.

c. Average Annual Family Income versus Average Annual Family

Expenditures

The Average annual family income in the city of Iloilo at that time
is at 6,445.54 US Dollars while the average annual Family Expenditure
is at 5,156.52 US Dollars.

Figure 3: Average Annual Family Income Versus Average Annual

Family Expenditures

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 d. Average per Capita Income versus Average Per Capita
Expenditures
The average per Capita Income is at 1,478.09 US Dollars while
the average per Capita Expenditures is at 1,171.75 US Dollars.

Figure 4: Average Annual Family Income Versus Average Annual

Family Expenditures

B. Water Treatment Plant for the City Abattoir and the Iloilo Mission Hospital
a. DEWATS modules utilized.

The DEWATS modules utilized in the City Abattoir consists of 2

Modules Treatment System with each module containing 2 Biogas
Digester, 8 chamber Anaerobic Baffled Reactor, 1 planted gravel Filter, and
1 Chamber Anaerobic Filter and a common indicator pond that is divided
or used for both modules. While, the water treatment plant for the Iloilo
Mission Hospital consists of a 3 modules system that shares a common
planted gravel filter with each of the 3 modules consisting of 8 chamber
anaerobic Baffled Reactor and 1 chamber anaerobic filter.

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 WTP FOR THE ILOILO
WTP FOR THE CITY ABATTOIR
MISSION HOSPITAL
2 Modules Treatment System 3 Modules Treatment System
 2 Biogas Digester  8 chamber anaerobic
 8 Chamber Anaerobic Baffled Reactor
Baffled Reactor  1 chamber anaerobic
 1 Chamber Anaerobic Filter Filter
divided into 2 modules  A common Planted
 1 Planted Gravel Filter Gravel Filter for all 3
 Common indicator pond modules
Table 1. Summary of the DEWATS modules used for the Water Treatment
Plant of the City Abattoir and Water Treatment Plant of the Iloilo Mission
Hospital.

b. Treatment Capacity
The water treatment capacity of the WTP of the City Abattoir is
about 75 cubic meters daily while the WTP of the Iloilo Mission Hospital
can treat about 291 cubic meters of wastewater discharge daily. Noting the
significant difference in the amount of wastewater that can be treated.
However, when combined, the WTP in the city of Iloilo can collectively treat
about 366 cubic meters of wastewater daily.

Figure 5: The Daily Water Treatment Capacity of WTP of the City

Abattoir and WTP of the Iloilo Mission Hospital (in cubic meters).

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 c. Water Quality
The biochemical Oxygen Demand of the Raw wastewater in the
City Abattoir is 2,000 mg/L while the Chemical Oxygen Demand is at 4,000
mg/L. For the wastewater discharge of Iloilo Mission Hospital, the
Biochemical Oxygen Demand is only at 250 mg/L while no data where
given for the chemical oxygen demand. Both WTPs, that of the City Abattoir
and of the Iloilo Mission Hospital have an expected effluent quality of ≤ 50
mg/L.

WTP of the
WTP of the
Iloilo Mission
City Abattoir
Hospital

BOD (Biochemical
Oxygen Demand) of Raw 2,000 mg/L 250 mg/L
Wastewater

COD (Chemical Oxygen

Demand) of Raw 4,000 mg/L
Wastewater

Expected Effluent
≤ 50 mg/L ≤ 50 mg/L
Quality

Table 2. Summary of the water quality discharge in the City Abattoir

and the Iloilo Mission Hospital.

C. Construction and Operating Expenses

a. Construction Cost

The construction cost for the water treatment plant for the city Abattoir
amounted to 79,545.45 US Dollars that is funded by the LGU while the
construction of the water treatment plant for the Iloilo Mission Hospital
amounted to 147,727.27 which was funded internally from the institution itself.

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 Description City Abattoir Iloilo Mission Hospital

Project Cost 79,545.45 147,727.27

Source of Funds LGU Iloilo Mission Hospital

Table 3. Summary of Construction cost of the Water Treatment Plants

in Iloilo City.

b. Operation and Maintenance Cost

The operational and maintenance cost of the water treatment plant for
either the City Abattoir or the Iloilo Mission Hospital will be shouldered by the
owners. This includes the monthly salary of the operators, desludging costs,
and other miscellaneous expenses. An estimated amount of 2,727.27 US
dollars is needed (at current price) is needed every 2 years for each of the
water treatment plant .

Table 4. A Two-Year Estimated Cost for the Operation and

Maintenance of the Water Treatment Plant

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V. DATA ANALYSIS & INTERPRETATION
The data analysis reveals a positive economic trend in Iloilo City, with a population
of 418,710 and a thriving business sector featuring 8,407 establishments. Average
family incomes surpass expenditures, indicating financial well-being. The water
treatment plants at the City Abattoir and Iloilo Mission Hospital demonstrate robust
capabilities, collectively treating 366 cubic meters of wastewater daily. Water quality
meets effluent standards, with BOD and COD levels within prescribed limits.
Construction costs for the treatment plants are detailed, and operational expenses,
borne by owners, are estimated at 2,727.27 US dollars every two years per plant. This
comprehensive summary underscores the city's economic health, wastewater
management efficacy, and the importance of financial and technical considerations for
sustainability.

Consequently, the data highlights the critical ecological role of Iloilo River, the
urgent need to address untreated sewage challenges, the impact of human activities
on land use, and successful implementation of sanitation technologies with positive
economic and environmental outcomes. The participatory approach and support from
initiatives like the LINAW project underscore the collaborative efforts toward
preserving the ecological health of the Iloilo River.

STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES

1. Rich Ecosystem- Iloilo River supports 1. Human-Induced Changes- The majority

diverse biological activities, serving as a
nursery for important fish species and
hosting a variety of mangrove species,
contributing to the local biodiversity.
2. Strategic Location- The estuarine
characteristic of Iloilo River makes it an
ideal source of brackish water for fish
pond cultivation, supporting the local
fishing industry.
of environmental challenges in Iloilo River
stem from human activities, particularly
untreated sewage from numerous
barangays, leading to low dissolved
oxygen levels.
2. Lack of Sewerage System- Absence of
a proper sewerage system results in
reliance on poorly maintained septic

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3. Community Dependence- The river is a
vital source of sustenance and livelihood
for residents engaged in fishing activities,
creating a strong community connection.
tanks, contributing to water pollution and
ecosystem degradation.
3. High Operating Cost- The high cost
associated with conventional sewerage
systems has been a significant obstacle
in addressing the issue of untreated
sewage.

OPPORTUNITIES THREATS

1. LINAW Project- Participation in the 1. Population Growth- With a growing

LINAW Project, funded by USAID,
presents opportunities for strategic
interventions, technology adoption, and
public awareness campaigns to improve
sanitation.
2. Public Awareness- Ongoing public
awareness campaigns can foster
understanding of the link between septic
tank practices, water pollution, and
waterborne diseases, paving the way for
behavioral changes.
3. Collaboration with Stakeholders-
Collaborative efforts with universities and
institutions provide technical expertise,
contributing to the successful
implementation of low-cost treatment
facilities.
Table 5. The SWOT Analysis for Preserving the Water Quality of Iloilo City Project
population, the challenge of controlling
untreated sewage from numerous
barangays is likely to intensify,
exacerbating environmental issues.
2. Limited Resources- The city faces the
challenge of limited resources to invest in
comprehensive sewerage systems,
making it difficult to address the root
causes of water pollution effectively.
3. Climate Change- Environmental
impacts, exacerbated by climate change,
may pose additional threats to the river's
ecosystem, necessitating adaptive
measures.

Overall, addressing the weaknesses and leveraging opportunities through

collaborative initiatives and strategic interventions can contribute to the sustainable
development of Iloilo River and its surrounding areas.

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 VI. ALTERNATIVES/ RECOMMENDATION

The alternatives and recommendations that can help in addtion to the DEWATS system
in order to further preserve the water quality of Iloilo river are stated in this section.

Implementing a combination of the following recommendations can contribute to a

comprehensive and sustainable strategy for the protection and revitalization of the Iloilo
River ecosystem.

1. Integrated Watershed Management and Enhanced Regulatory

Framework
Implement an integrated watershed management approach,
addressing upstream activities affecting water quality. Collaborate with
rural communities and agricultural practices to minimize runoff and
agricultural pollutants entering the river. As well as strengthen and enforce
regulations related to septic tank construction and maintenance. This
ensures that on-site treatment systems meet standards, reducing the risk
of untreated sewage entering the river.

Advantages:
 Addresses upstream pollution sources effectively.
 Involves rural communities, fostering a sense of shared
responsibility.
 Minimizes runoff and agricultural pollutants.
 Ensures compliance with wastewater treatment standards.
 Reduces the risk of untreated sewage entering the river.
 Establishes clear guidelines for septic tank construction.

Disadvantages:
 Requires coordinated efforts from multiple stakeholders.
 Potential resistance from certain agricultural practices.
 Requires robust enforcement mechanisms.
 May face resistance from those affected by stricter regulations.

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2. Community-Based Monitoring
Establish a community-based river monitoring program involving
residents, schools, and local organizations. This can enhance early
detection of pollution sources and foster a sense of responsibility among
community members.

Advantages:
 Enhances early pollution detection with local insights.
 Fosters a sense of ownership and civic responsibility.
 Strengthens community bonds through collaborative efforts.

Disadvantages:
 Requires ongoing community engagement and education.
 Limited technical expertise among community members.

3. Financial Incentives for Sustainable Practices

Introduce financial incentives for businesses adopting sustainable
wastewater treatment technologies. This could encourage widespread
adoption of low-cost and efficient treatment methods, benefiting both the
environment and the economy.

Advantages:
 Encourages businesses to adopt environmentally friendly
practices.
 Stimulates economic growth through innovation in wastewater
treatment.
 Aligns financial success with environmental responsibility.

Disadvantages:
 Initial costs for businesses transitioning to sustainable
practices.
 Requires effective monitoring to ensure compliance.

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4. Capacity Building and Training
Invest in capacity building and training programs for residents and local
officials on proper waste management and the benefits of sustainable
practices. This empowers the community to actively participate in
preserving the river.

Advantages:
 Empowers the community to actively participate in
environmental preservation.
 Builds local expertise in sustainable waste management.
 Long-term benefits with informed and engaged residents.

Disadvantages:
 Time and resources needed for comprehensive training
programs.
 Continuous effort required to maintain awareness.

5. Public-Private Partnerships
Explore public-private partnerships to fund and implement critical
infrastructure projects. This collaboration can attract private investment for
sewerage systems and wastewater treatment facilities, overcoming
financial barriers.

Advantages:
 Attracts private investment, easing the burden on public funds.
 Combines public sector oversight with private sector efficiency.
 Accelerates project implementation through shared resources.

Disadvantages:
 Balancing public and private interests may be challenging.
 Potential for conflicts of interest between stakeholders.

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 6. Public Awareness Campaigns
Continue and expand public awareness campaigns, emphasizing the
ecological importance of the Iloilo River. Educate residents, businesses,
and visitors on responsible waste disposal and the broader impact on the
community's well-being.

Advantages:
 Educates residents, businesses, and visitors on environmental
responsibility.
 Builds a shared understanding of the river's ecological
importance.
 Cultivates a culture of responsible waste disposal.

Disadvantages:
 Sustaining public interest over the long term may be
challenging.
 Success depends on effective communication strategies.

7. International Collaboration
Seek collaboration with international organizations and experts to
benefit from global best practices. Exchange knowledge, technology, and
expertise to enhance Iloilo City's capacity for effective river preservation.

Advantages:
 Accesses global best practices and expertise.
 Facilitates knowledge and technology transfer.
 Strengthens the city's capacity for effective river preservation.

Disadvantages:
 Balancing local context with international practices.
 Potential challenges in coordinating across different
jurisdictions.

Implementing Integrated Watershed Management is crucial to address upstream

pollution sources, emphasizing shared responsibility among rural communities.

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Strengthening and enforcing regulations related to septic tank construction is
recommended to ensure compliance with wastewater treatment standards. A robust
regulatory framework is vital for effective river protection, despite potential resistance.
Additionally, establishing a community-based river monitoring program is suggested to
enhance early pollution detection and strengthen community bonds. Early detection and
community engagement are crucial elements, fostering a vigilant community.
Furthermore, introducing financial incentives for businesses adopting sustainable
wastewater treatment technologies is recommended to stimulate economic growth and
align financial success with environmental responsibility. Encouraging businesses to
transition to sustainable practices has positive economic and environmental impacts.
Lastly, investing in capacity building and training programs for residents and local officials
is advised to empower the community in waste management, despite the time and
resource requirements, as an informed and engaged community is key to sustainable
environmental practices.

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VII. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Integrated Watershed Management and Enhanced Regulatory Framework in addition to
the 2 DEWATS system Implementation Plan:

1. Pre-Implementation Phase
 Conduct research on cost-effective and effectual ways of onsite water
treatment to reduce water contamination
 Coordinate with companies for detailed designs of standardized septic
tanks and ways on its cost-effective maintenance.
 Conduct testing on the designs to ensure quality if its overall construction
 Create guidelines and standardize the construction of septic tanks in the
area.
 Create criteria for the result analysis in order to evaluate the project’s
performance.

2. Implementation Phase
 Collaborate with rural communities and agricultural practices to minimize
untreated sewage entering the river.
 Advise the community on proper water treatment and chemical disposal.
Promote proper waste disposal and water treatment practices to the
community.
 Strengthen and reinforce regulations related to septic tank construction and
maintenance.
 Ensure on-site water treatment systems meet the standards.
 Create a separate disposal system for certain chemicals and agricultural
pollutants to reduce river contamination.

3. Post-Implementation Phase
 Evaluate the project’s success using the established criteria.
 Review possible ways to improve project outcome.
 Determine issues and challenges addressed for reference

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 VIII. CONCLUSION
The introduction of the Decentralized Wastewater Treatment Systems otherwise
known as DEWATS at the Public Abattoir and the Iloilo Mission Hospital in Iloilo City is an
effective approach to preserve the water quality that these institutions discards into the
Iloilo River. However, it is insufficient in effectively neutralizing the environmental threats
that the river is facing especially from rural, agricultural, and commercial establishments
that continuously attribute to the untreated sewage that the river receives. Therefore,
supplementary policies and regulations must be incorporated to ensure the river’s quality.
These includes a combination of reinforcing policies and regulations, advocating the use
of standardized septic tanks, and the promotion of sustainable environmental practices.

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 IX. REFERENCES

Albay R. (Oct 29, 2021). Two tributary creeks pose threat to Iloilo River Rehabilitation.
Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism. Retrieved from:
https://pcij.org/article/7367/two-tributary-creeks-pose-threat-to-iloilo-river-
rehabilitation

PADCO. (February, 2006). Local Initiatives for Affordable Wastewater Treatment in the
Philippines/LINAW-1, 1025 Thomas Jefferson Street, NW Suite 170 Washington,
DC 20007-5204, Retrieved from: https://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/PDACI905.pdf

Singh K. (n.d.). Decentralised WasteWater Treatment System (DEWATS). ESCAP.

Retrieved from: https://www.unescap.org/sites/default/files/6.%20Singh-
UNHABITAT.pdf

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