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TUBLAY, Benguet: At least seven river tributaries in Barangay
Ambassador, Tublay, Benguet, were initially discovered to be not
safe for human consumption based on the scientific findings
conducted by the University of the Cordilleras (UC).
A statement from the university obtained by the
media showed that findings on water safety in various areas
subjected to tests indicated some traces of mercury and cyanide,
which is not safe for human consumption.
The release further quoted Dr. Teresita Doctor
of the UC College of Arts and Sciences Biology Department, who said
that the contamination might have been caused by improper waste
disposal, use of pesticides and commercial fertilizers, and wastes
from the already closed Sto. Niño Mines.
The university’s initial laboratory findings
indicate some form of contamination in the areas of Kilometer 17,
Labey Creek, Mamuyod A, Palso Upper, Patad-el B, Sto Niño 1, 2 and
3, Sapuan Creek, and Tabeyo 1.
On the other hand, the areas of Nalseb, Olman
Kuros, Central, areas of Patad-el, Babaten, Aquique, Tabeyo and Km
16 have generally safe water sources.
“Although some of the water samples are
nongenotoxic, some are safe only for watering ornamental plants and
not for cooking or drinking. The contamination may not be visible in
the short term, but these have long-lasting effects,” Doctor said.
In a related development, Mayor Ruben Paoad of
Tublay announced there are attempts by some companies to reestablish
mining activities in the area.
Paoad said he is against any mining activity in
the municipality of Tublay because of its adverse effects on the
environment. “From experience, we have learned that mining
communities in Benguet are not benefited economically from mine
operations. Instead, they are now faced with health and environment
problems,” he said.
Paoad made the statement when the university
conducted a community outreach program under the environment
component of the university’s Project HELEN, which stands for
Health, Environment, Livelihood, Education and Nurturance.
University President Jaime M. Buzar and Dean
Josefina Domingo, who also attended the activity, committed to
assist the local community through various initiatives under Project
HELEN.
It maybe recalled that the university adopted
Barangay Ambassador as it pilot area for Project HELEN, which aims
to assist Tublay residents through various trainings and workshops
on organic farming, barangay peace and order, local governance,
proper waste segregation and disposal, and entrepreneurship or
alternative livelihood.
-- Harley F. Palangchao
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