Eco-friendly septic system installed in Siargao

MANILA, Philippines — After the successful launch of its eco-friendly septic tank system in world-renowned Boracay island, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is bringing the wastewater contamination solution to emerging surfer destination Surigao.

The Eco-sep, a technology funded by the DOST – Philippine Council for Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), aims to install a sustainable and eco-friendly septic water management system on Siargao island. 

Septic tank systems are currently installed in three pilot sites – General Luna Market, General Luna High School and Traveler’s Beach Resort – under a research project involving Eco-sep Technology. 

“The samples collected from these sites will serve as a baseline for DOST to convince resort owners, LGUs and households to adopt the technology in our campaign,” says engineer Noel Ajoc, project coordinator.

Merlinda Palencia, inventor of Eco-sep technology, explained that the system deployed in the pilot sites contain the Vigormin – an organomineral that hastens the decomposition of harmful bacteria present in septic tanks – thereby preventing seepage and contamination of sewage systems.

“Eco-sep will make an impact on Siargao since the source of its eco-tourism is the pristine, fresh and very clean water along its beaches,” Palencia said.