The Environmental Management Bureau Region VII (Central Visayas) explains that the Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004 is a Philippine law aimed at protecting the country’s water bodies from pollution caused by industries, commercial establishments, agriculture, and household activities. It promotes a comprehensive and integrated approach to water quality management.
Key Objectives of RA 9275:
1. Prevent and control water pollution
2. Protect freshwater, groundwater, coastal, and marine waters
3. Promote sustainable water resource management
4. Encourage participation from government agencies, LGUs, private sectors, and communities
Important Provisions:
1. Industries and facilities discharging wastewater must secure discharge permits
2. Wastewater and sewage treatment are required
3. Water Quality Management Areas (WQMAs) are established
4. Polluters may face fines, penalties, and imprisonment for violations
5. Monitoring and inspection by DENR-EMB are authorized
Prohibited Acts
Some prohibited acts under the law include:
1. Discharging untreated wastewater into rivers, lakes, or seas
2. Dumping hazardous substances into water bodies
3. Operating without wastewater discharge permits
4. Refusing DENR inspection and monitoring
5. Polluting groundwater and coastal waters
Penalties
Violators may face:
1. Fines ranging from ₱10,000 to ₱200,000 per day of violation
2. Higher penalties for gross violations
3. Possible imprisonment for serious offenses