CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study
Groundwater is the most abundant source of freshwater and consider to be one of
the purest form of natural water due to its natural filtering ability and low need for
treatment. Additionally, groundwater acts as a massive underground reservoir, capable of
holding vast quantities of water making it a reliable resources throughout the year.
However, there are also downsides. One major concern is the potential for contamination.
Groundwater sources are often located near potential sources of pollution, such as
landfills, waste disposal, and agricultural areas increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.
In Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, deep well serves as a primary water source and
sanitation for the community. Deep wells are often considered a reliable source of
groundwater, as they are less susceptible to surface contamination compared to shallow
wells and springs. They provide readily available water for daily needs, contributing to
the well-being and health of the community. Their importance extends beyond domestic
use, playing a significant role in the city’s agricultural sector as well. However, their role
as the primary water source is often overshadowed by concerns about water quality. The
lack of thorough testing and potential presence of contaminants discourage residents from
directly consuming the water or even for non-drinking purposes. An assessment and
comprehensive mapping of deep wells are essential components to address water quality
concerns, potential contamination and for future viability issues.
These study aims to conduct a water quality assessment and mapping of deep
wells in selected barangays of Marawi City, Lanao del Sur. By evaluating the physical
and chemical parameters of the water such as their pH, Color, Temperature, Salinity,
Turbidity, Total Dissolved Solids, Lead, Cadmium Arsenic, and Nitrate. These study
seeks to determine the overall water quality and identify potential contaminants.
Additionally, the study aims to create a comprehensive map that visualizes the
distribution of deep wells and their corresponding water quality status in the selected
barangays. This map will serve as a valuable tool for local authorities to identify areas of
concern and prioritize interventions for water quality improvement.
Statement of the Problem
Deep wells offer a valuable water source for many residents, their water quality
remains largely unknown and potentially unsafe due to various factors, including, but not
limited to, lack of assessments, industrial wastes, potential for contamination and other
various factors. Thus, the quality of the water used for agricultural, drinking or non-
drinking purposes must be examined to prevent unwanted outcomes.
Objectives of the Study
The general objective of the study is to determine the quality of groundwater in
six barangays in MSU - Marawi City, as well as to create a map that visualizes the
distribution of deep wells and their corresponding physicochemical quality status in the
barangays. This study aimed to analyze the quality of water within a selection of
households, paying particular attention to the following parameters:
1) Color,
2) Turbidity,
3) pH,
4) Temperature,
5) Salinity,
6) Lead,
7) Arsenic,
8) Cadmiun,
9) Nitrate, and
10) Total Dissolved Solids (TDS).
Significance of the Study
Assessing the physical and chemical parameters of the groundwater thru deep
well will imply safe and accessible water for the residents of six barangays in MSU -
Marawi City, whether it is used for drinking, residential use, food production, and other
purposes. Furthermore, mapping of deep wells will be used to graphically interpret and
visualizes the distribution of their corresponding water quality status in the six barangays.
Scope and Limitation of the Study
This study focuses on testing the quality of water from six different Barangays
within MSU - Marawi City, to wit; Brgy. Lomidong, Brgy. Cabingan, Brgy. Dimalna,
Brgy. Cadayonan, Brgy. Rapasun, and Brgy. Sikap through ten parameters such as Color,
Turbidity, Temperature, pH, Salinity, Lead, Arsenic, Cadmium, Nitrate, And Total
Dissolved Solids (TDS). In addition, spatial distribution of deep wells will be mapped
using Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques.
Time and place of the Study
The study will be conducted in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, targeting six
barangays. The specific timeframe for data collection will be determined during the
proposal development stage, ensuring the findings accurately reflect the current state of
the deep well water in the selected barangays.
