SLSU presents GIS-based water quality findings, shapes policy directions for Maasin City’s health sector

On March 26, 2026, the project team from the Geographic Information Systems Technology Center (GISTC) of Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) successfully conducted the presentation of research findings and policy recommendations to the Local Health Board of Maasin City, Southern Leyte. This activity forms part of the deliverables of the DOST–PCHRD-funded project entitled, “Development of a GIS-Based Intervention to Assess Water Quality: Bases for Mitigating Water-Borne Diseases in Maasin City, Southern Leyte.”

The presentation served as a vital platform for communicating evidence-based insights and facilitating policy dialogue among key local stakeholders, contributing to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).

The session was attended by members of the Local Health Board and was chaired by the City Administrator, Mr. Lourse E. Ortega. Participants included City Health Officers, the DepEd School Physician, Sanitation Inspectors, and representatives from the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO), City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), and other relevant offices. The project team presented the key findings derived from GIS-based water source mapping, bacteriological water quality assessment, and spatial analysis conducted across ten (10) selected barangays, namely: Batuan, Combado, Tagnipa, Cambooc, Hantag, San Isidro, Malapoc Norte, Malapoc Sur, Matin-ao, and Rizal. Emphasis was given to the identification of water sources with potential contamination risks, spatial distribution patterns, proximity to pollution sources, and vulnerable populations.

A major highlight of the presentation was the introduction of the Water Resources and Water Quality Atlas developed for each barangay, which consolidates spatial outputs into an accessible and decision-support format. Each barangay atlas contains detailed maps and information on identified water sources, their classification, condition, potential contamination risks, surrounding environmental factors, and associated hazards such as flooding and landslides. These atlases serve as localized planning tools that enable barangay officials and city stakeholders to better understand water resource conditions and prioritize interventions based on evidence.

In addition, the project team presented general policy recommendations based on the findings of the study, aimed at supporting improved water quality management and public health outcomes. The discussion encouraged alignment of the research outputs with existing local plans and initiatives, fostering collaboration among concerned offices and stakeholders.

The Local Health Board expressed appreciation for the comprehensive and evidence-based outputs of the project, particularly the barangay-level atlases, which were recognized as valuable tools for planning and decision-making. Participants also provided insights and feedback on how the findings and outputs may be utilized within the city’s programs and initiatives, and further expressed interest in the possibility of applying the same methodology to other barangays to support broader water quality assessment and monitoring efforts across Maasin City. As part of the project’s sustainability efforts, the team also presented the initially developed Water Source Management System, which is envisioned to support continuous data updating, monitoring, and informed decision-making at the local level. Overall, the activity facilitated effective knowledge sharing, stakeholder engagement, and constructive dialogue.