Microbial Water Quality and Contamination Drivers in Ecotourism Freshwaters of Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary

Microbial water quality in the ecotourism trails of Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, Philippines, exhibits significant spatial variation driven by anthropogenic factors. A study analyzing total coliform and Escherichia coli concentrations across eight stations on the San Isidro and Gov. Generoso trails found uneven contamination patterns, with Camp 3 showing consistently elevated levels while Camp 2 had no detectable E. coli. Total coliform concentrations remained within DENR Class C standards but varied significantly between stations (F = 16.92, p < 0.001), as did E. coli levels (F = 8.47, p < 0.001). The findings highlight the influence of physicochemical variables, particularly pH, on microbial contamination, underscoring the need for routine monitoring and site-specific visitor management to mitigate risks under increasing ecotourism pressure.

Meljay D, C., & Nemenzo-Calica, P. (2026). Microbial Water Quality and Contamination Drivers in Ecotourism Freshwaters of Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary. Davao Research Journal, 17(3). https://doi.org/10.59120/drj.v17i3.623