Assessment of physico-chemical, heavy metal, and microbiological quality of spring water sources in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines

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Research Paper 10/01/2026
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Assessment of physico-chemical, heavy metal, and microbiological quality of spring water sources in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines

Ronnie L. Besagas*
J. Biodiv. & Environ. Sci. 28(1), 96-101, January 2026.
Copyright Statement: Copyright 2026; The Author(s).
License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Abstract

This study evaluated the water quality of three major spring sources—Dumaguing, Faustina, and Napapong—in the municipality of Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines. Water samples were analyzed for physico-chemical parameters, heavy metal concentrations, and microbiological quality (Total Coliform and Escherichia coli). The results indicated that the physico-chemical characteristics of all three springs, including pH, turbidity, total dissolved solids (TDS), and chlorides, were well within the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW), as well as USEPA and WHO guidelines. Heavy metal analysis showed that lead, cadmium, aluminum, arsenic, mercury, antimony, copper, and iron were generally below detection limits, with only trace amounts of zinc detected in Dumaguing spring. However, microbiological analysis revealed a significant health risk for Faustina and Napapong springs, which tested positive for E. coli and exhibited high total coliform counts (TNTC). Dumaguing spring was found to be free of E. coli with minimal coliform presence. The study concludes that while the physico-chemical and heavy metal profiles suggest the water is chemically safe, the microbial contamination in two of the three springs necessitates immediate disinfection and regular monitoring to ensure public health safety.

Bansilay JL, Felisilda MJB, Ibrahim MNB, Maraviles KJF, Villanueva RLA, Galarpe VRK. 2017. Physicochemical analyses of selected tap water samples from adjacent university community, Cagayan de Oro, Philippines. Science International (Lahore) 29(3), 633-638.

Besagas RL, Asoy AY, Ceniza MS, Leopoldo GD, Dael NT, Del Rosario RM. 2015. Upland and Coastal Freshwater Sources in Misamis Oriental, Philippines: A Comparison of Water Quality. Mindanao Journal of Science and Technology 13, 1-11.

Besagas RL, Del Rosario RM, Walag AMP. 2022. The Heavy Metals and Microbiological Profiles of the Major Drinking Water Supply System of Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines. International Journal of Biosciences 20(3), 154-160.

Besagas RL, Del Rosario RM, Leopoldo GD, Dael NT, Asoy AY. 2023a. Evaluating the water quality of key freshwater source in Alubijid, Misamis Oriental, Philippines. Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences 22(6), 122-126.

Besagas RL, Del Rosario RM, Leopoldo GD, Dael NT, Asoy AY. 2023b. Assessment of Water Quality in Major Freshwater Source of El Salvador City, Philippines. Science International (Lahore) 35(3), 291-293.

Besagas RL, Del Rosario RM, Leopoldo GD, Dael NT, Asoy AY. 2023c. Water Quality of Major Freshwater Sources in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines. International Journal of Biosciences 22(6), 13-18.

Besagas RL, Del Rosario RM, Leopoldo GD, Ceniza MS, Dael NT, Asoy AY. 2024. Evaluating the Water Quality of Key Freshwater Sources in Gingoog City, Philippines. International Journal of Biosciences 25(6), 101-107.

Leopoldo GD, Ceniza MS, Besagas RL, Asoy AY, Dael NT, Del Rosario RM. 2017. Assessment of freshwater quality of different deepwell sources in Western Misamis Oriental, Philippines. Science International (Lahore) 29(4), 1003-1006.

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Department of Health. 2007. Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water 2007 (Administrative Order No. 2007‑0012). Department of Health, Republic of the Philippines.

United States Environmental Protection Agency. 2012. 2012 edition of the Drinking Water Standards and Health Advisories (EPA 822‑S‑12‑001). Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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