A land developer in Pucsusan barangay and four eateries in Outlook Drive were penalized by the city government for draining their wastewater into the canal that leads to the spring.
Outlook Drive barangay officials and residents earlier complained to Mayor Benjamin Magalong of accumulated wastes and foul odor emanating from a canal leading to the spring towards Tuding Road.
The mayor immediately ordered an inspection by the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) under CEPM Officer Rhenan Diwas which sent a team from their Environmental Management Division.
The EMD headed by Engr. Sofronio Pascua conducted an inspection at Outlook Drive on March 12, 2025 and traced the wastewater from four eateries in the barangay which were discharging kitchen wastes and urinals into the drainage canal.
These eateries were immediately issued notices of violation (NOV) with penalty.
However, it was observed that a bigger volume of septic tank wastewater was coming from a developer’s station at neighboring Pucsusan barangay but when the team along with the barangay officials approached the site to validate, they were refused entry.
The mayor promptly directed the Baguio City Police Office and the Public Order and Safety Division to provide assistance to the CEPMO for a return inspection.
When the team also joined by the City Health Services Office came to inspect the construction the following day, they confirmed that the wastewater indeed was coming from the septic tank overflow.
The company was also issued a NOV with penalty and was ordered to undertake corrective measures. They were advised to plug the overflow pipe, conduct regular desludging of septic tanks and maintain cleanliness in the area.
Their compliance will be monitored, according to the CEPMO. – Aileen P. Refuerzo
