Hot spring resort development in Laguna Province, Philippines: Challenges in water use regulation

Abstract

Study region: Calamba and Los Baños in Laguna Province, Philippines lie between the northern part of Mt. Makiling and north shore of Laguna de Bay. Study focus: One significant activity in Laguna province is the development of the water resorts which includes hot springs resorts and spas. Presence of hot springs is due to the geothermal activities in the area. This study seeks to explore the nature and possible impacts of groundwater utilization in hot spring resorts in Calamba and Los Baños in Laguna Province. This study also analyzes the issues and challenges in the implementation of policies and laws to regulate water use in these resorts. New hydrological insights for the region: These water resorts are estimated to consume large volume of groundwater which could result to over-extraction and decrease in groundwater quantity. However, monitoring and regulation of usage is difficult as most of these resorts operate without water use permits. If groundwater use is left unregulated, water availability for the resorts industry and for domestic, commercial and other uses in the future will be negatively affected. It is necessary to strengthen implementation of laws and enhance partnerships among national and local government agencies, private sector, civil society and communities, in the proper monitoring and regulation of groundwater resources to promote sustainability.

Keywords

• Laguna Province
• Urbanization
• Hot spring resorts development
• Water use regulations
• Groundwater management