Title
Water Quality Criteria for Coastal and Marine Waters
Law
Denr Administrative Order No. 97-23
Decision Date
Jul 24, 1997
DENR Administrative Order No. 97-23 updates water usage classifications and quality criteria for coastal and marine waters, establishing standards for beneficial uses such as commercial shellfish harvesting, recreational activities, and industrial purposes while outlining monitoring procedures for water quality.
water quality
administrative order
environmental law
A

Water Quality Criteria for Coastal and Marine Waters

  • Amended water quality standards specify limits for conventional and other pollutants affecting aesthetics and oxygen demand.
  • Included parameters such as fecal coliform levels set at a maximum geometric mean of 200 MPN/100ml.
  • The fecal coliform limit is based on data from at least five consecutive sampling events.

Monitoring and Sampling Procedures for Fecal Coliforms

  • Sampling frequency: at least six times monthly during pollution presence; reduced frequency permitted during low bathing activity or effective pollution control.
  • Sampling location criteria: water depth not less than 1 meter, with samples collected 20-30 centimeters below the surface.
  • Strict adherence to protocols regarding sample containers, collection methods, preservation, handling, chain-of-custody, analysis, and quality assurance/quality control required.

Effectivity Clause

  • The administrative order takes effect fifteen (15) days after publication in two newspapers of general circulation.

These provisions collectively ensure the classification of Philippine coastal and marine waters aligns with their optimal beneficial uses, defines associated water quality standards, and mandates rigorous monitoring to maintain safe and satisfactory water quality conditions.


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