As I am walking in and out of the squatter communities near me, I am drawn to the water. This is not like any water you may be thinking of. This water is BLACK, thick, full of sewage, dirt, laundry run off, trash and so much more. This is water that the cats, dogs, children and adults drink when they are desperate.
Due to this, most families need to have their water shipped in to them. The water companies know they are dependent on this commodity and adjust their prices accordingly. Approximately 3 gallons of drinking water costs a third of a day’s wage and is meant to provide for a family of 5+ for a week. It breaks my heart. When they run out of water, they can use the other water that is used for cooking, cleaning clothes and bathing. But this water is contaminated and is open to any insect or bug flying by. I have done a little research on the water issues in the Philippines and this is what I have found:
Even though the water resources have become scarce, the Philippines as a whole have more than enough surface and groundwater to meet its demands. Yet, the neglect of a consistent environmental policy has made some good go to waste. 58% of the groundwater is contaminated [source] due to the pollution of untreated domestic and industrial wastewater.[source] Only one third of the Filipino river systems are believed suitable for public water consumption.[source] It is predicted that in 2025, water availability will be minimal in most main cities and in 42% major river basins.[source] Besides the severe health concerns, the water pollution also affects the fishing and tourism industries, which for most families is their only source of income. [source]
The current water quality doesn’t meet the standards set by the Filipino government, especially in the urban areas. Because of this, waterborne diseases have damaged the health of the people. Approximately, 4,200 people die every year due to contaminated drinking water. [source]
Another cause of the drinking water being polluted is from the treatment (or lack thereof) of the wastewater (i.e. toilet water). Only 5% of the total population is connected to a sewer system. Because the treatment and disposal of this waste is uncommon, most of the waste is discarded without any treatment. [source]
