ILOILO CITY: Confirmed traces of chemical contaminants in raw water sources have prompted a water utility in Iloilo to temporarily shut down its water treatment plant.

South Balibago Waterworks Inc. (SBWI) announced on Sunday, May 5, that it has temporarily suspended the operations of its treatment plant in Bongco, Pototan.

The decision came after a report of elevated total dissolved solids (TDS) levels in the untreated water, surpassing the acceptable limit of 600 ppm as specified in the Philippine National Standard for Drinking Water.

As a precautionary measure, SBWI has advised consumers against using the water for drinking and cooking due to its elevated TDS content. However, it remains suitable for domestic purposes such as bathing, washing and cleaning.

SBWI serves various areas in Iloilo City, particularly in most parts of the Jaro district, Leganes and Zarraga.

TDS refers to the concentration of dissolved substances in water, including salts, minerals, organic matter and other dissolved solids.

While high TDS levels do not necessarily pose immediate health risks, it can alter the taste, smell and appearance of water.

"Prolonged use of water with elevated TDS levels for domestic purposes may cause the buildup of scales and corrosion in pipelines, plumbing fixtures and household equipment such as water heaters," the SBWI said.

Consumers may also observe that cleaning agents such as soap and detergents have difficulty foaming, SBWI added.

SBWI has assured the public of continuous monitoring of TDS levels every 15 minutes to ensure water quality.

"We expect the water supply to be unstable until Thursday when TDS levels return to normal," it said.

SBWI attributed the elevated TDS levels to the ongoing El Niño phenomenon.