IDENTIFICATION OF BACTERIAL ORGANISM OF TAP WATER

AT MANKILAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, TAGUM CITY

A Thesis
Presented to the Faculty and Research Committee
Tagum Doctors College, Inc.
Tagum City

In partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for the Degree

Medical Laboratory Science

Batiancila, Laureen Joyce

Bonotan, Aeliyah Mae
Rodriguez, Jhe-ann
Saavedra, Klendy

May 2023
 ii

Approval Sheet

This RESEARCH entitled THE IDENTIFICATION OF BACTERIAL

ORGANISM OF TAP WATER AT MANKILAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN
TAGUM CITY, prepared and submitted by JHEA-ANN M. RODRIGUEZ,
KLENDY D. SAAVEDRA, AELIYAH MAE D. BONOTAN, AND LAUREEN
JOYCE B. BATIANCILA in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
degree of BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MEDICAL LABORATORY
SCIENCE, has been examined and hereby endorsed.

ANN FATIMA G. QUINDAO, RMT, LPT, MPH

Adviser
______________________________________________________________

APPROVED by the Research Committee on the Oral Examination with

the grade of PASSED.

REY ANTHONY S. PEREZ, RMT, MSMT

Chairman

JESA S. MADELO, RPh, MPh, PhD HIYASMIN GUTIERREZ, LPT, RMT, MSMT
Member Member

ACCEPTED AND APPROVED in partial fulfillment of the requirement

for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science.

MR. REY ANTHONY S. PEREZ, RMT, MSMT

Department Head
 iii

Abstract

There is an assurance that the public water supply is safe and clean before it

leaves the water utility. However, there are cases where leaks in pipes and

plumbing parts may contaminate the water after it leaves the water utility and

is distributed to schools. The research study aims to determine the presence

of bacterial contamination in the tap water of Mankilam Elementary School in

Tagum City, ensuring the safety of pupils who use the tap water. The

experiment was conducted by researchers in the laboratory of Tagum

Doctor’s College, Inc. A quantitative experimental study was carried out to

ascertain the presence of bacterial contamination in the tap water from

Mankilam Elementary School in Tagum City. This study utilizes the probability

sampling method to choose tap water samples from frequented areas of the

school. A total of 10 faucets, one from each frequented area, were tested in

this research study. The water samples collected were immediately

transported to the laboratory for the experiment. To identify colony count and

colony morphology, the water samples were streaked on both MacConkey

agar and Eosin Methylene Blue agar to detect the possible presence of

bacteria such as Enterobacteriaceae. The test showed no growth in either

agar within 24-120 hours. This study concludes that the tap water from

Mankilam Elementary School in Tagum City is safe to use on a daily basis.

There is no bacterial contamination in their water source or pipeline.

Keywords: Tap Water, Bacterial Contamination, Colony Count and

Morphology
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Acknowledgment

We would like to express our deepest appreciation and gratitude to the

individuals and institutions who were always willing to provide us with advice

and support. This study would not have been able to achieve its goals without

them.

Dr. Jesa S. Madelo, PhD, MPh, RPh, Research Director and

Professor, for her supervision, suggestions, and corrections, which greatly

helped improve the study. We are grateful to her for sharing her knowledge,

support, and advice from the beginning to the end of the study. It was an

honor to work on this project under her guidance.

Prof. Alma Abonete Cenal, LPT, and Miraluz O. Panaligan, EdD, for

approving our request to conduct our research within their jurisdiction. Your

approval has led to incredible discoveries in the field of public health

information.

Prof. Ann Fatima G. Quindao, RMT, LPT, MPH, our research adviser,

we are grateful for your ideas, suggestions, and supervision during our

research study. We truly appreciate the time you spent correcting and

improving our research paper. It was an honor and privilege to work under

your guidance.

Prof. Jenry Ken Vincent Mibato, RMT, MSMT, Hiyasmin Gutierrez,

RMT, MPH, and Roel Nickelson M. Solano, RMT, MSMT, our instructors, we

sincerely thank all of you for providing us with your valuable insights.
 v

We express our gratitude to our statistician, Ernel D. Bagbag, for

sharing his mathematical expertise, which significantly contributed to the

analysis and interpretation of the research data.

To our grammarian, Joecel Jan M. Gomez, who thoroughly read and

reviewed this research paper, ensuring the quality of our study, we express

our sincere gratitude.

A special thanks goes to our parents, who encouraged and provided

us with everything we needed to complete this study. To all those who

assisted us, we are grateful for your generosity and goodwill. Lastly, we want

to thank our professors, fellow students, and friends who supported us

through our challenges and successes while conducting this research.

Above all, we thank the Almighty God for granting us strength,

knowledge, wisdom, and perseverance, as well as for all the blessings and

guidance bestowed upon us to complete this study.

“The only thing standing between you and outrageous

success is continuous progress”

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Table of Contents

TITLE PAGE i

APPROVAL SHEET ii

ABSTRACT iii

ACKNOWLEDGMENT iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS vi

CHAPTER I: INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study 1

Theoretical Framework 3

Conceptual Framework 4

Audience 6

Purpose Statement 7

Research Questions 7

Hypothesis 8

Review of Related Literature 8

CHAPTER II: METHODOLOGY

Research Design 13

Place of the Study 15

Research Subject 16

Data Collection 16

Data Analysis 17

Ethical Consideration 18
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CHAPTER III: RESULTS

Table 1. Presence and Growth of bacterial 21

organism from faucet samples

CHAPTER IV: DISCUSSION

Discussion 22

CHAPTER V: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusion 25

Recommendations 26

REFERENCES 27

APPENDICES
 Chapter I

Introduction

Background of the Study

School sanitation, hygiene, and safe water can affect a pupil's

attendance and academic performance. Safe water has a significant impact

on the attendance rate (SkyJuice Foundation, 2017). Water is a nearly

colorless chemical substance that is used daily for survival, whether it be for

drinking, household needs, recreation, agriculture, thermoelectricity/energy, or

industrial use. There is a consumption of water every day as the population

continues to grow and the demand increases. Therefore, there is a need to

secure water sources. However, securing clean water is a challenge as water

plays a role in health.

Bacterial contamination of drinking water is a major contributor to

waterborne diseases in rural areas of most developing countries where water

sources are communally shared and exposed to multiple fecal-oral

transmission pathways in their neighborhood boundaries. Escherichia coli (E.

coli) infections associated with drinking contaminated water remain a major

public health concern as its presence signifies fatal illnesses such as diarrhea

(Gwimbi et al., 2019).

According to the World Health Organization (2022), an estimated

829,000 people die annually from unsafe drinking water, sanitation, and hand

hygiene. The death of 297,000 children under five years is due to these

factors, which could be prevented if the issues are addressed. Moreover,

contaminated water and poor sanitation are associated with transmissible

diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, dysentery, hepatitis A, typhoid, and polio.

 2

Hence, individuals are exposed to preventable health risks if there is absent,

inadequate, and improper management of water and sanitation.

There is an assurance that the public water supply is safe and clean

before it leaves the water utility. However, there are cases where leaks in

pipes and plumbing parts may contaminate the water after it leaves the water

utility and is distributed to schools. Hence, schools are allowed to test whether

the water is free from contamination to ensure safe faucet water (Centers for

Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).

In the Philippines, according to Jern (2021), 91% of the estimated

100.7 million population of the country have access to at least basic water

services. But is the faucet water safe to drink? Jern further stated that the

Philippines' water quality commonly does not meet the national government

standards, particularly in urban areas. One of the common issues with faucet

water in the Philippines is safe drinking water and proper sanitation facilities,

which are essential to health and wellness. Safe water and sanitation are

related to children's nutrition and health because unsafe and unhygienic

practices decrease children's capability to excel in school and productivity.

According to the Barangay Mankilam, Purok Papaya Health Center in

Mankilam, Tagum City, the morbidity caused by water contamination during

2020 was more common in people aged 1-13 years old. Some of them

showed signs and symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, stomach

pain/cramps, and dehydration.

Children's health status is at risk from microbial water contamination,

especially in their respective schools, food security, and emerging infectious

 3

diseases. The potential effects of the bacteria present in tap water, which are

already affecting hundreds of millions of children today, have been linked to

poor hygiene and health practices, making it essential to teach children

healthy behaviors for prevention. Applying an important concept for healthy

behavior will help develop a child's mindset in the future to prevent any

possible effects they might experience by using tap water in their schools. In

order to ascertain the effects of using tap water on pupils' health and

academic performance, the researcher would like to test the water at

Mankilam Elementary School in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, for the

presence of bacterial contamination.

Theoretical Framework

Ritter et al. (2011) stated that countless diseases and diarrheal

outbreaks are caused by poorly treated water. One of the primary sources of

contamination may be the transport flow paths of water sources or the

contamination of water sewage within urban areas, which may pose relative

risks to human and environmental health.

In Pennsylvania and Ohio, more than 10 schools have reported

detecting dangerous microbes in their plumbing. Even the nation's

Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, found

Legionella, the bacteria that causes Legionnaires' disease, in buildings it rents

(Proctor et al., 2020).

According to Olds et al. (2018), the current contamination of surface

water is above the normal risk for recreational use. Moreover, contaminated
 4

sewage pipes threaten drinking water distribution systems and source water.

Extensive microbial exposure may affect an individual's health status.

Conceptual Framework

Figure No. 1 presents the dependent and independent variables of the

study. The conceptual framework was refined with each successive research

phase. The independent variables involve the identification of tap water at

Mankilam Elementary School, Tagum City. The dependent variable refers to

the presence of microbes.

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INDEPENDENT VARIABLE DEPENDENT VARIABLE

Identification of Bacterial Presence of Bacteria

Organism at Mankilam
Elementary School,
Tagum City

Colony Morphology Types of Bacteria

Biochemical Test Colony count

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework of the Study

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Audience

The audience for this research study includes those who will read and

benefit from it, with the aim of understanding the effects of using tap water at

Mankilam Elementary School, Tagum City. The researchers believe that this

study would be beneficial for the following groups of people:

School Administrators. This includes the president and heads of

departments. The study provides data that can be used to spread awareness

and accurate information regarding health, not just for the pupils but for all

individuals who may come across this information.

Teachers. They can utilize the study findings to decide on the best

methods and approaches for raising awareness about the importance of

drinking clean water, thus preventing waterborne infectious diseases among

the pupils.

Students. The study aims to make pupils aware of the potential health

risks associated with using tap water, especially in their respective

classrooms where they may not be aware of the water's potential microbial

effects. It also aims to educate them on the dangers of doing so.

Future Researchers. The study will assist researchers in locating

relevant data for conducting additional research on the issue.

Community. This study will help individuals in the community

understand that drinking water is safe and that they have a lower risk of

contracting waterborne illnesses. It aims to educate and assist them in

developing this understanding.

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Purpose Statement

The researchers aimed to conduct a study focusing on the factors

affecting the health of pupils in relation to the use of tap water at Mankilam

Elementary School, Tagum City. The study aims to investigate the potential

factors that pupils may encounter when using tap water without knowledge of

its safety. By testing the water, the study seeks to raise awareness among

pupils, parents, teachers, and city health officials. It also aims to ensure that

the tap water is clean, which is particularly crucial in schools where students'

health is at risk.

Furthermore, the paper focuses on testing the tap water used by the

children in their respective classrooms to identify any bacteria that might be

present and determine the specific effects of this bacteria on the pupils'

health. The study intends to help students recognize the importance of clean

water for their health. In conclusion, the main goal of this study is to increase

awareness of the students' health in relation to the tap water they frequently

use at school by testing the water for potential harmful bacteria.

Research Question

The researchers aimed to identify bacterial organisms in the tap water

at Mankilam Elementary School in Tagum City. This study sought to answer

the following questions:

1. Is there a presence of bacterial contamination in the tap water from

Mankilam Elementary School, Tagum City?

1.1 Colony count

2. What are the possible colonies present in the tap water at Mankilam?
 8

2.1 Colonies morphologies

Hypothesis

Alternative Hypothesis: There is a significant presence of bacterial

contamination in the tap water at Mankilam Elementary School.

Review of Related Literature

The concepts, theories, and research findings gathered from books,

journals, and research papers related to the current study are presented in

this chapter to provide insights and a comparative background.

Figure 2. Water (hydrogen oxide)

Water is a nearly colorless chemical substance that is essential for our

daily survival. It is used for various purposes, including drinking, household

 9

needs, recreation, agriculture, thermoelectricity/energy, and industrial use.

Water consumption occurs every day. It is vital for the body and every cell,

making up 60% of our total weight. We rely on water to cool our bodies

through sweat, transport waste products via blood, and circulate oxygen to

our organs. Additionally, staying hydrated can keep the memory sharp,

stabilize mood, and keep the brain healthy. Proper hydration enables oxygen

to flow to the brain and prevents bad breath by keeping the throat and lips

moist, avoiding a dry mouth (Gorman, 2020).

Waterborne Pathogens

Waterborne illnesses are caused by consuming or coming into contact

with water contaminated with disease-causing organisms. However, various

waterborne diseases can also be acquired through consumption of

contaminated food or beverages, contact with animals or their habitats, or

person-to-person transmission. Moreover, waterborne diseases can cause a

wide range of symptoms. While diarrhea and vomiting are the most commonly

reported symptoms, other issues can include skin, ear, respiratory, or eye

problems ("Cause and Symptoms of Waterborne Illnesses - Minnesota Dept.

of Health," 2019).

In addition, microbial content in drinking water can vary seasonally.

Several factors can influence the proliferation of opportunistic pathogens in

plumbing systems, such as old plumbing, low water flow rate or stagnation,

lack of disinfectant residual, physical and chemical constituents of the water,

and poor management. During school breaks, when water flow decreases,

there is a higher risk of opportunistic pathogens rapidly multiplying (Aw et al.,

2022).
 10

Due to its various uses, water has always been one of the most vital

necessities for mankind. The limited availability of clean water for

consumption in developing countries like the Philippines has significant

economic effects, as a high percentage of the population suffers from water-

related diseases. Although the number of water refilling stations in the

Philippines is increasing and more Filipino households are using commercial

water, not everyone can adapt to this lifestyle (Mamuad et al., 2022).

Water Contamination

According to the "Centers for Disease Control and Prevention" (2022),

drinking water can become contaminated with germs and chemicals even

after it has been treated. There are numerous ways in which harmful

microorganisms can enter the water, including:

The application of fertilizers, insecticides, or other chemicals on land

near water operations.

1. Concentrated feeding operations, such as large industrial animal farms.

2. Industrial and manufacturing operations.

3. Sewer overflows.

4. Stormwater.

5. Wildlife.

6. Natural substances present in rocks and soil, such as uranium, radon,

and arsenic.

7. Water pipe leaks or other issues with the distribution system.

Furthermore, due to the high concentration of various pathogens

associated with human waste, pollution from domestic wastewater poses a

risk to public health in environmental waterways or water reuse supplies.

 11

Since it is challenging to directly measure waterborne pathogens,

microbiological water quality monitoring initiatives often rely on substitutes or

indicator organisms whose presence indicates the potential presence of

pathogens (Symonds et al., 2019).

Groundwater Bacterial Pathogens

Groundwater is susceptible to fecal contamination. The presence of

microbial pathogens in groundwater is often indicated by the detection of fecal

indicator bacteria such as total coliform bacteria, Escherichia coli,

Enterococci, and Coliphage. Similar to other pathogens, these indicator

bacteria typically do not thrive outside of specific conditions. Factors such as

temperature, competition with other bacteria, predation by other species, and

entrapment in pore spaces limit their ability to survive in groundwater habitats

(Macler and Merkle, 2000, as cited in Ferris et al., 2021).

Tap Water Bacterial Pathogens

The occurrence of bacterial diseases transmitted through water, such

as cholera, typhoid fever, and bacillary dysentery, focuses on the biology and

ecology of the causative agents, as well as the characteristics and life cycles

of the diseases in the environment. Acute microbial diarrheal illnesses pose a

significant public health concern. The individuals affected by diarrheal

diseases often have limited financial resources and poor sanitary conditions.

Waterborne microbial infections predominantly affect children under the age

of five, primarily in Asian and African countries (Cabral, J. P. S., 2010).

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 2 billion

people worldwide consume water contaminated with feces. Water pollution by

harmful bacteria is often the result of poor quality control and sanitation
 12

practices. Bacteria commonly found in the intestinal tracts of humans and

animals (e.g., E. coli, Vibrio, Shigella, Salmonella, etc.) can spread and

contaminate water through feces, rendering it unsafe for consumption.

Additionally, viruses such as Rotavirus, Enterovirus, and others that reside in

the gastrointestinal systems of warm-blooded animals can be transported to

the water supply and subsequently transmitted to humans or other animals,

leading to severe illness and even death.

Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that can cause health

problems in humans, animals, or plants, despite their ability to contribute to

water pollution prevention in various ways. E. coli and fecal coliform bacteria

are indicators of water contamination by human or animal waste, resulting in

short-term health effects such as cramps, nausea, diarrhea, headaches, and

more. They may also pose a higher risk to individuals with severely weakened

immune systems, the elderly, young children, and infants.

 Chapter II

Methods

This chapter discusses the methodology employed in the quantitative

study, including the research design, study location, research subjects,

research instruments, instrument validity, data collection and analysis, and

ethical considerations.

Research Design

This quantitative study utilized a true experimental research design. It

is quantitative in nature, as it takes an experimental approach to examine the

effects of microbial contamination in relation to the consumption of water as

the primary source for drinking and personal needs among the pupils,

teachers, and staff. A quantitative experimental research design is considered

the gold standard for testing hypotheses through experimentation, statistical

analysis, and a scientific approach. This research aims to establish a cause-

and-effect relationship by conducting experiments and drawing conclusions

based on the results (Pollfish, 2021).

Furthermore, quantitative experimental research is widely employed in

the physical sciences and related fields. It can be utilized in physiology,

physical and social sciences, and education. The scientific approach to

research is useful for comparing two or more groups using straightforward

logic (Formplus, 2020).

In order to determine if there is microbial contamination present when

obtaining water directly from the faucet, the researchers conducted this

quantitative experimental study. Given the various direct and indirect uses of
 14

water, it is reasonable to assume that some of the unfiltered water from the

faucet could be contaminated. The objective of the research was to collect

data on the prevalence of waterborne infectious diseases. In this design,

subjects were randomly assigned to different treatments.

 15

Place of the Study

The researchers collected tap water directly from the faucet at

Mankilam Elementary School in Barangay Mankilam, Tagum City, Davao del

Norte, which served as the water sample for the study. The selection of this

study location was based on convenience and accessibility.

Figure 3 Map of the Philippines Figure 4 Map of Tagum City

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Research Subject

The researchers employed the probability sampling method,

specifically the simple random sampling technique, to select tap water

samples for the study. A total of 10 tap water samples were collected from the

faucets of Mankilam Elementary School in Tagum City. According to Trochrim

(n.d.), the simple random selection method ensures that different units in the

population have an equal chance of being chosen, resulting in accurate

representation and effective data collection.

The inclusion criteria for the study were that the tap water samples

should originate from the faucets of Mankilam Elementary School. The

exclusion criteria were other sources of tap water, such as wells or stagnant

water tanks.

Data Collection

Collection of Tap Water Sample

The tap water sample used in the study is collected from Mankilam

Elementary School in Tagum City, Davao del Norte. The sample is obtained

from ten (10) frequently accessed areas within the school and stored in sterile

containers. It is then immediately transported to the laboratory.

Identification of Bacteria

To identify the presence of bacteria in the water samples, two types of

agars are used. Eosin methylene Blue (EMB) agar is used to detect the

possible presence of coliforms, while MacConkey Agar is used to identify

gram-negative, lactose-fermenting enteric bacteria in the samples.

 17

Ten petri dishes each of Eosin Methylene Blue agar and MacConkey Agar are

prepared. An equal amount of 400ml of each agar is poured into the

respective petri dishes. Once solidified, each water sample is streaked onto

the agar plates to determine the presence of bacteria. After streaking, the

petri dishes are incubated for 24 to 96 hours and observed every 24 hours to

monitor bacterial growth.

Biochemical Test

To further differentiate bacterial species based on their unique

characteristics, four biochemical tests are conducted. These tests aid in the

identification of bacteria.

Triple Sugar Iron Agar- This is used for the presumptive identification of

Enterobacteriaceae.

Conventional IMViC- This involves four different tests: Sulfur Indole

Motility (SIM), Methyl Red (MR), Voges-Proskauer (VP), and Citrate

Utilization. These tests are used for the identification and differentiation of

Enterobacteriaceae.

Lysine Decarboxylase Test- Itis performed to determine if the microbe

is capable of utilizing the amino acid lysine as a source of carbon and energy

for growth.

Data Analysis

The gathered data will be cross-tabulated and analyzed using the Chi-

square test. This statistical tool will be utilized to determine if any differences

between the observed data and expected data are statistically significant,
 18

specifically regarding the tap water samples collected from Mankilam

Elementary School in Tagum City.

Ethical Consideration

Ethics are moral principles that everyone must follow, regardless of

their circumstances. Planning a research project requires knowledge of what

constitutes ethical research, as well as an understanding of the research

itself. Research ethics encompass a set of laws and principles that govern

how researchers and research institutions interact with research participants,

other researchers and peers, research viewers, and the general public. The

following are ethical concerns identified in this study:

Biosafety. Given the nature of the study involving microorganisms,

adequate biosafety measures must be implemented to prevent the infection of

staff, the general public, and individuals outside the laboratory. Specific

protocols will be strictly followed during the execution of the experiment.

Informed Consent. Prior to the commencement of the research

project, information and a letter of consent and approval will be provided to

the school and the dean of the Medical Laboratory Science department.

Additionally, participating individuals will receive a copy of the informed

consent form before they join the study.

Confidentiality and Privacy. The researchers will ensure the

participants' freedom throughout the study and maintain the privacy of their

personal information. Only the researchers will have access to the data, which

will be collected anonymously.

 19

Integrity. The researcher must be honest, straightforward, and fair.

They should conduct themselves in an ethically exemplary manner, fostering

trust, cooperation, and respect within the scientific community and with the

wider community, thereby upholding excellent ethical conduct.

 Chapter III

Results

This chapter presents the data based on the results gathered from the

true experiment conducted in the study, which assisted the researchers in

determining the presence of bacteria in the tap water at Mankilam Elementary

School. Furthermore, the researchers employed a simple random sampling

method to collect samples from faucet 1 up to faucet 10. Once the data were

collected, the researchers meticulously recorded and tabulated the data.

Presence of Microbial Contamination in the Tap Water

Colony Count

According to Weber Scientific, the colony-forming unit (abbreviated

CFU) is a precise unit used to quantify the amount of bacteria or fungal cells

contained within a given sample. The purpose of colony counting is to

estimate the number of cells present based on their ability to continue growing

and proliferating under specific variables such as temperature and nutritional

medium conditions. This method is employed to track viable CFUs, which are

defined as those capable of multiplying under highly controlled conditions

using a technique like binary fission.

Colonies Present in Faucet Water at Mankilam

Colonies Morphologies

Colony morphology is a method used to describe the characteristics of

a single bacterial colony grown on agar in a Petri dish. Colonies can vary in

shape, size, color, and texture. Each distinct colony represents a single

bacterial cell or group that has undergone repeated divisions.

Table 1
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Presence and Growth of Bacterial Organism from Faucet Samples

TIME AGAR MEDIA RESULT

24 hours EMB AGAR No growth

MAC AGAR No growth

48 hours EMB AGAR No growth

MAC AGAR No growth

72 hours EMB AGAR No growth

MAC AGAR No growth

96 hours EMB AGAR No growth

MAC AGAR No growth

120 hours EMB AGAR No growth

MAC AGAR No growth

The data (Table 1) indicates that all water samples produced consistent

results, with no signs of bacterial growth or presence observed in any of the

sampled faucets. This suggests that the tested water can be deemed free

from microbial contamination, assuming all necessary protocols were correctly

followed during the sampling and experimental procedures. Moreover, since

there is no variability in the obtained results, there is no need for statistical

analysis or treatment.
 Chapter IV

Discussion

This chapter discusses the results of the experiment conducted to

identify the presence or absence of bacterial organisms in the tap water at

Mankilam Elementary School. Prior to the mandate by the Department of

Education (DepEd), the school had been undergoing water tests every three

months, as observed on the school grounds and confirmed by utility

personnel. However, the school experienced a water outage, leading to a lack

of water supply in the comfort room and other handwashing facilities. This

poses a risk of infection for students, as they may not have water for flushing

or handwashing after exposure to unclean food or dirty environments. The

shortage of water in schools can result in the deterioration of sanitation and

hygiene infrastructure, inadequate resource management, and a rapid

increase in population, leading to a severe and growing lack of safe water and

sanitation.

In 2016, 66% of schools worldwide had improved single-sex sanitation

facilities that were functional at the time of the survey, providing a basic

sanitation service. An additional 12% of schools had renovated facilities that

were either not single-sex or were inoperable, offering a limited service.

Globally, 23% of schools had no sanitation service and relied on outdated

facilities (UNICEF, 2018).

Basic cleanliness is crucial for the health, safety, and development of

children. Without access to sanitation facilities such as clean water and toilets,

as well as hygienic practices like handwashing with soap, children are at risk

of falling ill. The lack of sanitation can hinder their development potential. A
 23

healthy environment is essential for upholding children's rights, as every child

deserves to live, grow, and develop. These rights necessitate access to safe

drinking water and basic sanitation (UNICEF, n.d).

Water quality is checked once a year through collaboration with the

appropriate agency or office. Water for cleaning purposes is only available on

specific days of the week, regardless of its source. Testing the water is crucial

to assess its potability, and this task must be performed by the water district

or a government-approved laboratory. Therefore, it is the school's

responsibility to regularly communicate with relevant agencies to check the

water quality. Safe drinking water plays a vital role in protecting students'

health by keeping them hydrated and reducing the risk of diseases caused by

harmful organisms and toxins (DepEd, n.d.).

The presence of bacteria in the water does not automatically indicate

that it is unsafe to use. Only pathogens, which are disease-causing bacteria,

pose a threat. Your test results should include the presence of total coliform

bacteria. Total coliform bacteria comprise various types of bacteria commonly

found in the environment, such as soil, vegetation, and untreated surface

water. The bacteriological test results are classified based on the growth or

absence of colony count, which indicates the presence or absence of total

coliform bacteria. A negative result for total coliform bacteria confirms that the

water is safe for human consumption (North Dakota State University, 2017).

Furthermore, after conducting an experiment from day one to day five

of incubating the sample, the researcher concluded that there was no growth

in the colony count and no presence of colony morphology. Hence, the water
 24

is considered safe for the children, indicating that both the water source and

the school's water pipeline are uncontaminated.

 Chapter V

Conclusion and Recommendations

This chapter presents a comprehensive interpretation of the study. The

conclusion addresses the research statement, while the recommendations

propose further analysis based on the study's findings.

Conclusion

The study revealed the possibility of bacterial contamination in the

water system. Consequently, waterborne microorganisms can cause illness,

especially in immunocompromised individuals and children with weakened

immune systems. Children, who frequently use the faucet at Mankilam

Elementary School, are particularly susceptible to becoming ill. Therefore,

ensuring the health of these students should be a priority. Conducting water

analysis becomes necessary to safeguard their well-being and educate them

about the potential risks to their health.

To mitigate the risk of illness from contaminated water, it is crucial to

maintain and disinfect water sources properly. Regular cleaning and

maintenance of faucets and other water sources can help prevent bacterial

buildup. Additionally, practicing safe food handling techniques and avoiding

consumption of untreated water from potentially contaminated sources are

important preventive measures. Consequently, the researchers performed

various procedures including water collection, streaking, incubation,

biochemical testing, and zone of inhibition assessment to identify the

presence of bacterial organisms in the water source.

Recommendations
 26

The following recommendations are offered based on the work

accomplished during this research study:

1. Provide proper information and education to pupils and parents

regarding proper hygiene practices and the use of tap water.

2. Ensure the regular submission of water samples for bacteriological

analysis on a quarterly basis.

3. Maintain cleanliness in the surroundings, including the bathroom areas

and other frequented areas.

 27

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sheets/detail/drinking-water
 APPENDIX A

LETTER OF REQUEST
 Appendix B

Faucet Number and Place of Collection

Faucet Number Place of Collection

Faucet 1 Handwashing #1 near the guard house

Faucet 2 Building 1 first floor comfort room

Faucet 3 Buidling 2 besides Grade 1 orange

Faucet 4 Deep well

Faucet 5 Women’s comfort room besides gym

Faucet 6 Handwashing #2 beside Grade 5 Aguinaldo

Faucet 7 Grade 1 Grapes comfort room

Faucet 8 School Clinic

Faucet 9 Canteen Handwashing Area

Faucet 10 Grade 4 Oriole besides Principal Office

 APPENDIX C

Documentation of Methodology

1. Sample Collection and Preparation of MacConkey and Eosin

Methylene Blue Agar

2. Streaking
3. Preparation of Biochemical Test Media

4. Observation for Bacterial Growth

 APPENDIX D

Table 1.

Presence and Growth of microbes from faucet samples

Time Agar Media Result

24 hours EMB AGAR No growth

MAC AGAR No growth

48 hours EMB AGAR No growth

MAC AGAR No growth

72 hours EMB AGAR No growth

MAC AGAR No growth

96 hours EMB AGAR No growth

MAC AGAR No growth

120 hours EMB AGAR No growth

MAC AGAR No growth

The data shows (table 1) that all water samples yielded similar results, in

which no evidence of bacterial growth or presence was observed in any of the

water from the sampled faucets. This suggests that the sampled water can be

considered free from microbial contamination, assuming all relevant protocols

were correctly performed during the sampling and experimental processes.

Likewise, because there is no variation in the obtained results, a statistical

treatment analysis or treatment is unnecessary.

ERNEL D. BAGBAG
Statistician
 APPENDIX E

TAGUM DOCTOR’S COLLEGE, INC.

Mahogany St., Rabe Subd., Tagum City
Telefax: (084) 655 – 6971
Email: tdci_007@yahoo.com
Website: TagumDocollege.com

CERTIFICATE OF PROOFREADING

This is to certify that this research study entitled, “THE

IDENTIFICATION OF BACTERIAL ORGANISM OF TAP WATER AT

MANKILAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN TAGUM CITY”, has been reviewed

and went through all the pages of the research paper aligned with set of structural

rules that govern the composition of sentences, phrases, and words in the English

language by the undersigned person.

Signed this 7th day of June 2023 at Tagum Doctors, College, Inc.

JOECEL JAN M. GOMEZ

Proofreader
 APPENDIX F

IDENTIFICATION OF BACTERIAL ORGANISM OF TAP WATER

AT MANKILAM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, TAGUM CITY

A Thesis
Presented to the Faculty and Research Committee
Tagum Doctors College, Inc.
Tagum City

In partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for the Degree

Medical Laboratory Science

Batiancila, Laureen Joyce

Bonotan, Aeliyah Mae
Rodriguez, Jhe-ann
Saavedra, Klendy

May 2023
 CURRICULUM VITAE

JHE-ANN M. RODRIGUEZ

Purok 28-B, Timog,

Madaum, Tagum City
Cell Number: 09102153085
bsmls2b.rodriguezjheann@gmail.com
PERSONAL INFORMATION:

AGE: 21
SEX: Female
DATE OF BIRTH: June 17, 2001
NATIONALITY: Filipino
RELIGION: Roman Catholic
CIVIL STATUS: Single
FATHER’S NAME: Dioscoro A. Rodriguez
OCCUPATION: Driver
MOTHER’S NAME: Eva M. Rodriguez
OCCUPATION: Housewife

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

School:
Year Graduated: 2014
JUNIOR HIGH EDUCATION:
School:
Year Graduated: 2018
SENIOR HIGH EDUCATION:
School:
Year Graduated: 2020
TERTIARY EDUCATION
School:
Year Graduated: 2019-Present
 CURRICULUM VITAE

KLENDY D. SAAVEDRA

Palmera Street, Purok Malinawon Homes,

Magugpo East, Tagum City
Cell Number: 09816082587
bsmls2b.saavedraklendy@gmail.com
PERSONAL IN FORMATION:

AGE: 21
SEX: Female
DATE OF BIRTH: October 24, 2001
NATIONALITY: Filipino
RELIGION: Roman Catholic
CIVIL STATUS: Single
FATHER’S NAME: Nicanor B. Saavedra
OCCUPATION: Retired Army
MOTHER’S NAME: Lourdes D. Saavedra
OCCUPATION: Housewife

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

School: Don Ricardo BrizCentral Elementary School

Year Graduated: 2014
JUNIOR HIGH EDUCATION:
School: Tagum City National High School
Year Graduated: 2018
SENIOR HIGH EDUCATION:
School: Tagum Doctors College, Inc.
Year Graduated: 2020
TERTIARY EDUCATION
School: Tagum Doctors College, Inc.
Year Graduated: 2019-Present
 CURRICULUM VITAE

LAUREEN JOYCE B. BATIANCILA

Street 3, Purok Ernand,Binuangan,

Maco, Davao de Oro
Cell Number: 09214139318
bmls2b.batiancila.laureenjoyce@gmail.com
PERSONAL IN FORMATION:

AGE: 21
SEX: Female
DATE OF BIRTH: September 5, 2001
NATIONALITY: Filipino
RELIGION: Roman Catholic
CIVIL STATUS: Single
FATHER’S NAME: Allan T. Batiancila
OCCUPATION: School Auxillary
MOTHER’S NAME: Marcelina B. Batiancila
OCCUPATION: School Cashier

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

School: Assumpta School of Tagum, Inc.

Year Graduated: 2014
JUNIOR HIGH EDUCATION:
School: Assumpta School of Tagum, Inc
Year Graduated: 2018
SENIOR HIGH EDUCATION:
School: Assumpta School Tagum, Inc
Year Graduated: 2020
TERTIARY EDUCATION
School: Tagum Doctors College, Inc.
Year Graduated: 2019-Present
 CURRICULUM VITAE

AELIYAH MAE D. BONOTAN

Purok 1,
Barangay Quezon, Panabo City
Cell Number: 09166108640
bsmls3b.saeliyahmaebonotan@gmail.com
PERSONAL IN FORMATION:

AGE: 21
SEX: Female
DATE OF BIRTH: December 09, 2021
NATIONALITY: Filipino
RELIGION: Born Again
CIVIL STATUS: Single
FATHER’S NAME: Ian D. Bonotan
OCCUPATION: DOLE Employee
MOTHER’S NAME: Mirasol D. Bonotan
OCCUPATION: Housewife

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

School: Panabo Central Elementary School

Year Graduated: 2015
JUNIOR HIGH EDUCATION:
School: Francisco Adlaon Learning Institute
Year Graduated: 2018
SENIOR HIGH EDUCATION:
School: Tagum Doctors College, Inc.
Year Graduated: 2020
TERTIARY EDUCATION
School: Tagum Doctors College, Inc.
Year Graduated: 2019-Present