In 2015, the Philippines was identified as the third-largest contributor to plastic pollution worldwide, generating approximately 2.7 million metric tons of plastic waste annually. Much of this plastic deteriorates into microplastics—tiny fragments nearly impossible to clean up.
This article delves into the presence of microplastics in the Philippines, focusing on where they are commonly found, their sources, and the problems they create.
Where Are Microplastics Commonly Found in the Philippines?
Due to their small size and lightweight nature, microplastics are incredibly pervasive. The wind can carry them, wash them into drainage systems, leach into the soil, or even enter the human body. Understanding their presence in specific regions of the Philippines can help us understand the scale of this issue.
Metro Manila
Metro Manila, the capital region of the Philippines, generates approximately 3 million metric tons of solid waste annually, the highest in the country. This waste significantly contributes to microplastic pollution, particularly in rivers.
A 2021 study investigated the presence of microplastics in five rivers that flow throughout Metro Manila into Manila Bay:
- Cañas River (Cavite): Drains into southeastern Manila Bay and is surrounded by informal settlements.
- Meycauayan River (Bulacan): Passes through areas with plastic manufacturing industries and is heavily polluted.
- Parañaque River (Metro Manila): Flows into the western-central part of Manila Bay, near a seafood market and critical wetland habitat.
- Pasig River (Metro Manila): Drains into the eastern Manila Bay, near the Manila port.
- Tullahan River (Metro Manila) Empties into northern Manila Bay and is surrounded by residential areas and industrial zones.
The study revealed alarming findings, with 1,580 to 57,665 microplastic particles per cubic meter in surface water and 386 to 1,357 particles per kilogram in sediment. Microplastics primarily originated from degraded plastic products like packaging and packaging. Predominant materials included polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene, commonly used in food containers and fishing gear.
Adding to this, a 2023 study revealed that Metro Manila’s atmosphere is also contaminated with microplastics, varying concentrations across the region. The highest levels were found in Muntinlupa City and Mandaluyong City. Polyester fibers comprised 74% of the detected microplastics and were the most common type, mainly from clothing materials. This highlights that microplastic pollution in Metro Manila is not confined to its rivers and water bodies but also affects the air, posing additional challenges to urban environmental management.
Laguna de Bay
Laguna de Bay, the Philippines’ largest freshwater lake, is vital for agriculture, fishing, and local livelihoods. However, pollution from improper waste disposal and industrial activities has severely affected the lake.
A 2022 study identified around 14.29 microplastic particles per cubic meter in Laguna de Bay’s waters. These particles were predominantly polypropylene fibers, likely from disposable face masks extensively used during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings highlight the indirect effects of global events on local ecosystems.
Tañon Strait
Tañon Strait, situated between Cebu and Negros Islands, is the country’s largest marine protected area and serves as a migratory path for whales and dolphins. Despite its ecological importance, it is not exempt from microplastic pollution.
In 2020, Dr. Maria Kristina Paler conducted a study revealing approximately 1.5 microplastic particles per liter in the strait’s waters. Most of these were polyethylene fragments from single-use plastics and sachet packaging.
Masao River
The Masao River, located in Butuan City on Mindanao Island, is a crucial aquaculture hub. However, the city’s high plastic consumption and poor waste management contribute to its pollution.
A 2023 study by Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology found one microplastic particle per liter of water in the river. Most were ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), commonly used in paint, reflecting the impact of industrial activities on water systems.
Sources of Microplastics in the Philippines
In the Philippines, microplastics originate from both local and external factors.
One major issue is poor plastic waste management in cities. Limited waste disposal systems, insufficient recycling facilities, and low awareness of proper plastic disposal lead to plastics ending up in the environment. Over time, these plastics break into tiny fragments, contaminating water bodies, soil, and even the air.
The country’s geography also contributes to the problem. As an archipelago with extensive coastlines, the Philippines is especially vulnerable to plastic pollution from local sources and neighboring countries. Rivers and waterways act as pathways, carrying plastic waste from inland areas to the ocean. Additionally, its location near major shipping routes increases the likelihood of plastic waste from other regions reaching its shores.
Problems Created by Microplastics
- Marine Ecosystems at Risk: The Philippines’ rich marine biodiversity is threatened as microplastics infiltrate oceans and water bodies. Marine life, such as fish and shellfish, ingest these particles, accumulating in the food chain. Read more: The Environmental Impact of Microplastics in the Philippines.
- Human Health Concerns: Microplastics in seafood consumed by Filipinos may pose potential health risks. While the long-term effects are not fully understood, ongoing research indicates potential adverse impacts from ingesting these particles.
- Pollution of Freshwater Sources: Microplastics contaminate rivers, lakes, and other freshwater bodies, affecting clean water supplies for human consumption and aquatic ecosystems.
- Economic Consequences: Microplastics negatively affect the fishing and seafood industries by contaminating marine resources and reducing income for coastal communities. Additionally, polluted beaches can harm tourism, a significant contributor to the Philippine economy.
Moving Forward
The presence of microplastics in the Philippines poses a pressing environmental challenge. Addressing this issue requires improving waste management systems, increasing public awareness, and enforcing stricter environmental policies. Implementing solutions at the national and international levels can help mitigate the problem, protecting the environment and the livelihoods that depend on it.