By Tara Yap

The presence of green algae along the beaches of Boracay is caused by untreated wastewater, Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Region VI (DENR-6) Director Jim Sampulna said.
He cited a study conducted last year that found informal settlers were dumping soap and shampoo directly into streams that flow towards the beach.
“These detergents serve as fertilizer to the algae,” Sampulna said.
While resorts, hotels, and restaurants are required to pipe through the Boracay Island Water Company (BIWC), which treats wastewater before it is released into the sea, Department of Tourism-Region VI (DOT-6) Director, Atty. Helen Catalbas, believes the said establishments are not linked into BIWC pipelines.
“I’m not sure if the occurrence of algae has something to do with those who did not tap into BIWC pipes,” Catalbas said.
However, according to the Boracay Foundation, Inc., green algae is seasonal and typically appears between February and May. They say there is nothing dangerous about the algae and claim it is “linked to the high nutrient load of the water.”
The organization added, “The presence of this algae is nature’s way of balancing the problem of high nutrient content.”/WDJ