Title: Water quality and microbial analysis of water samples in the University of Eastern Philippines Laoang Campus

Biography:

Louisito L. Madronio is currently working at University of Eastern Philippines Laoang Campus in Philippines.

Abstract

Consumption of microbial-contaminated water could result to diarrhea, enteropathy, and other illnesses with the heaviest impact upon children. Laoang though an island, had a problem on its water supply and resources. In response to this problem, the University of Eastern Philippines Laoang Campus (UEPL) had a project which aimed to provide potable water for faculty members, employee, and students that can be utilized in their daily chores, hence this study was conceptualized. Specifically, it aimed to determine the presence of Coliform spp. bacteria and other borne microorganisms in the water; and to conduct a presumptive test for isolating and culturing Coliform and biochemical test in order to determine the water quality. Experimental research method was used. Multiple Tube Fermentation technique was used at the department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Standard and Testing Laboratory.

Results reported that there was a “most probable” number per 100 ml of sample (MPN/100 ml) of an estimated mean density of coliform in the sample based on the probability formula. The Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC) estimated the number of live heterotrophic bacteria in the sample. The total coliform count in the three samples were greater than 23.0 MPN/mL count. The standard value of the total coliform count based on Philippine National standard for Drinking Water was less than 1.1. MPN/mL. The findings all showed greater 23.0 MPN/100 mL count. The standard value was less 1.1 MPN/mL while the result of the Heterotrophic Bacteria showed that only ML 17 825 was below the standard value of less than 500 CFU/mL. The other two samples showed a very high concentration as compared to the standard value. Hence, the water was not safe for drinking. The heterotrophic bacteria present in the water pose health risks to human and a high HPC count was an indicator for ideal condition for the growth of bacteria.

Based on the findings of the study, it is concluded that water particularly from the sources of the samples are not safe for use especially for drinking. A defective well is often the cause when coliform are found in water. Contamination may come from several kinds of defects such as missing or defective well cap, contaminant seepage through the deep well casing, contaminant seeping along the outside of the casing and well flooding. Hence, the campus administration should repair or provide some modifications of the water system to exterminate the presence of coliform.

Keywords – Water Quality; Experimental Research Design, Microbial Analysis, Escherichia coli (E. coli); Coliform spp.; Coliforms, Multiple – Tube Fermentation Technique, Lauryl Sulfate Broth (Merck), Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC, Colony Forming Unit.