Port of Surigao water sources tested safe for human use —PMO
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte, (PIA) — The Port Management Office (PMO) of Surigao received positive results from recent quality testing of its alternative water sources, confirming it is safe for human use.
“This is a very timely and important confirmation since these sources are increasingly utilized during the dry season,” Port Manager Froilan Caturla said.
“The water samples from the atmospheric water generator and the deep well facility at the Port of Surigao both passed microbiological analysis tests,” he added as he shared the laboratory reports dated May 10, 2025, from the Caraga Regional Hospital’s Department of Pathology in Surigao City.
The atmospheric water generator sample registered 1,406 CFU/ML in bacterial count testing, while the deep well water sample showed a similar result at 1,401 CFU/ML. Both samples measured 2.6 (most probable number) MPN/100ml for total coliforms and less than 1.1 MPN/100ml for thermotolerant (fecal) coliforms.
Accordingly, the result of the tests which were carried out on May 6, showed acceptable levels within the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW 2017, DOH AO 2017-0010).
These results indicated that PMO Surigao’s initiative to utilize alternative water sources provides safe water that meets national health standards – an important development for the facility’s operational sustainability and the safety of port users.
The testing was performed using the pour plate method and multiple tube fermentation technique in accordance with standard protocols, as indicated in the official laboratory reports. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from PPA-PMO Surigao)