Current Research on Geography, Earth Science and Environment Vol. 9

Safe groundwater is important for public health and domestic use. This initial assessment evaluated the physicochemical and microbiological quality of six selected active deep wells in San Policarpo, Calbayog City, together with their protective structures, locations, and surrounding conditions. Water samples were collected from six sites and submitted to the Department of Science and Technology laboratory for physicochemical and microbiological analyses. The measured physicochemical parameters included pH, temperature, total hardness, total dissolved solids, salinity, turbidity, conductivity, chloride, nitrite, and total iron. Results showed that all wells had pH values below the stated permissible range. Site 2 met the stated limits for all other measured physicochemical parameters, whereas the remaining sites exceeded one or more limits, particularly for total hardness, total dissolved solids, salinity, turbidity, or conductivity. Chloride, nitrite, and total iron were within the stated limits at all sites. Microbiological testing showed faecal coliform, Escherichia coli, total coliform, and heterotrophic plate counts above the stated permissible levels in all six wells. Most wells were cemented but uncovered, and the sites were located near houses, farms, poultry areas, or vegetation. These findings indicate that the assessed deep-well water should not be used for drinking, cooking, or dishwashing without appropriate treatment. Regular monitoring, appropriate well protection, and water-treatment measures, including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection, are recommended.