As of August 3, Senator Raffy Tulfo has filed Senate Resolution 541, calling for a comprehensive investigation into illegal wastewater discharge and improper septic waste disposal practices across the country. The resolution emphasizes the need to strengthen enforcement of the Clean Water Act.
In a statement, Tulfo highlighted growing concerns regarding the nationwide management of septage waste, including the collection, treatment, transport, and disposal of septic waste by local government units, water districts, and private operators.
The senator cited figures indicating that Metro Manila generates approximately 2,000 cubic meters of spent solvents, 22,000 tons of heavy metals, infectious waste, biological sludge, lubricants, and intractable waste, as well as 25 million cubic meters of acid and alkaline liquid waste annually, much of which is reportedly disposed of improperly. Tulfo further noted that only five percent of the population is currently connected to sewerage networks and treatment facilities.
The resolution follows recent environmental incidents. Last month, the Laguna Lake Development Authority initiated an investigation after reports of a fish kill, foul odor, and potential environmental violations linked to unauthorized wastewater discharge associated with a water infrastructure project in Laguna de Bay.
In a separate incident, authorities discovered radioactive materials and radioactive-contaminated production equipment at a steel plant in Magalang, Pampanga, prompting the immediate shutdown of the facility.
Senate Resolution 541 seeks to address these concerns through a formal inquiry into compliance with existing environmental regulations and the adequacy of current waste management infrastructure/Clarence Pacaña
