17 July 2026 – The Environmental Health and Sanitation Division of the City Health Services Office (CHSO) has ordered the temporary cessation of operations and corrective measures for commercial water providers and food establishments that failed recent bacteriological water quality tests from January to June this year.
In a report to Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Sanitation Division Head Engr. Albert Pay-an said that 31 commercial deepwells were inspected and tested. Of these, 20 passed while 11 failed the bacteriological water quality test.
Nine water refilling stations were also found to have failed bacteriological tests on their purified water, while 25 water delivery services recorded failed test results for their raw water.
Meanwhile, water quality tests also showed that 10 food establishments failed tests on their service water, while 21 establishments failed tests on the ice cubes they serve with beverages.
Pay-an said they immediately issued Sanitary Orders directing the affected establishments to stop operations, conduct the necessary maintenance, undergo retesting and submit passing laboratory results before resuming operations.
To improve water safety, commercial deepwell operators also attended a technical orientation on the proper operation and maintenance of chlorinators.
Pay-an said compliance with the Sanitary Orders are being closely monitored to ensure that all affected establishments meet water quality standards and protect public health.
The division is also set to implement the mayor’s order to immediately shut down water businesses that fail the tests for the second time.
The mayor issued the directive to ensure the safety and quality of drinking water supplied to the public and avoid water-related health issues.
Pay-an said these water businesses are required to undergo bacteriological testing every month.
Those that fail the tests at the first instance are issued sanitation orders to cease operations and undertake maintenance and cleanliness activities. It is only after they underwent a retest and passed the same that they will be allowed to operate again.
Meanwhile, those operating illegally continue to be traced by the city government.
In fact, nine refilling stations operating without business permits have been scheduled for closure in the coming days by the City Permits and Licensing Division. ** Aileen P. Refuerzo
