Water Analysis of Cotabato City Rivers and its Implication to Human and Aquatic Life
Thresa O. Corcoro, Nancy C. Alombro, Wevina Herrera

Abstract
This study aimed to determine the physico-chemical and biological characteristics of the rivers in Cotabato City namely Rio Grande de Mindanao along Quirino Bridge and Matampay Bridge, Rio Grande de Tamontaka, and Esteros river. Specifically it determined the physico-chemical characteristics of the river in terms of depth, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, biological oxygen demand (BOD), dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature, total suspended solid, salinity and pH. It also determined the level of coliform bacteria contamination in the river. Furthermore, it described the profile of the community along Cotabato rivers and their housing conditions/ in terms of number of member per household, occupation, annual income of households, religion and tribal affiliation. Moreover, it listed the the uses of the rivers by the residents and the water borne diseases afflicting the household members in the last three years. Finally, it identified the impact of the physico-chemical and biological characteristics of the rivers to aquatic organisms and human health. This study employed a descriptive-quantitative research design with survey, key informant interview and laboratory analysis as the main source of data. Supplementary data from the barangay were drawn such as: number of households and water borne diseases afflicting household members. Water analysis was done to determine the physico-chemical and biological characteristics of the river. The study revealed that the physico-chemical and bacteriological characteristics of Cotabato city Rivers conform with the criteria set by the EMB for class C rivers. Class C rivers are those suitable for fisheries, recreation and industrial use (after treatment). Bacteriological analysis of the rivers showed that these are contaminated with fecal coliform bacteria, that may be attributed to direct disposal of human wastes. Therefore, the rivers are not safe for household use.

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