TITLE:
Concealed Environmental Threat in the Coastal Region Requires Persistent Attention: The Panglao Island, Philippines Example
AUTHORS:
Daniel Edison Husana, Tomohiko Kikuchi
KEYWORDS:
Hidden Environmental Threat; Groundwater; Coastal Region; Panglao Island; Philippines
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Environmental Protection,
Vol.4 No.10,
October
10,
2013
ABSTRACT: Panglao is a small island in the
central part of the Philippines and well-known for its world-class beaches and
coral reefs. These attract millions of tourists each year thus providing business
opportunities and employment, a significant source of revenue for the local
economy. Moreover, this island lies in a region with high biodiversity.
However, the escalating activity is so alarming that the negative effect to the
local environment is very much prevalent but not easily perceivable. Analysis
and measurement of physico-chemical parameters of the groundwater revealed high
levels of human-induced contaminants. This subterranean pollution was attributable
to the leakage of septic tanks, artificial application of disinfectants as well
as infiltration of saltwater from the ocean due to over-extraction of
groundwater in order to meet the increasing demand for water. The community
within the area was oblivious because human impacts to the environment appear
to be virtually absent. These findings clearly suggest the concealed
vulnerability of the groundwater resources from human activities. Higher
standard for the coastal development plan, strong implementation of environmental
policy and immediate government action is deemed necessary.