June 23, 2017

ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER
No. 2017 - 0010

SUBJECT: Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water of 2017

I. RATIONALE

The history of the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW) started in
the year 1963. It was based on the 1958 World Health Organization International Standard for
Drinking Water and the 1962 United States Public Health Service Standards. The 1963
PNSDW edition was subsequently revised in 1978, 1993 and 2007.

Since the last revision of PNSDW in 2007, a number of issues and concerns from various
stakeholders have emerged. Among these are: (i) experiences of water service providers in
complying with the standards; (ii) publication of the fourth edition of the Guidelines for
Drinking-Water Quality by the World Health Organization in 2011, which includes new
parameters and an improved framework for drinking-water safety that should be considered in
water quality monitoring, testing, and analysis; (iii) issuance of DOH Administrative Order
Number 2014-0027, which requires all drinking-water service providers to develop and
implement water safety plans; (iv) new scope and definitions of Sustainable Development Goal
(SDG) water supply indicators; and (v) the need for water quality standards during emergency
situations.

This led to the updating of the PNSDW of 2007 through the Inter-Agency Technical
Working Group (TWG), headed by the Department of Health (DOH) with support from the
World Health Organization (WHO).

II. OBJECTIVES

This Administrative Order shall prescribe the standards and procedures on drinking-water
quality to protect public/consumer’s health.

III. SCOPE AND COVERAGE

The PNSDW of 2017 shall apply to all drinking-water service providers including
government and private developers and operators, bulk water suppliers, water refilling station
operators, and water vending machine operators; ice manufacturers; all food establishments,
residential, commercial, industrial and institutional buildings that use/supply/serve drinking
water; water testing laboratories; health and sanitation authorities; the general public and all
others who are involved in determining the safety of public’s drinking-water.

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IV. DEFINITION OF TERMS

1. Acceptability – physical and chemical quality of water that refers to the appearance,
taste and odor of drinking-water satisfactory to the consumer.
2. Bulk Water Supply – drinking-water supplied to water service providers or associated
infrastructures including pumping stations, reservoirs, and pipe lines.
3. Certified sampling personnel – a person who underwent training for drinking-water
sampling and certified by the DOH.
4. Contamination – a general term referring to the presence of substances found in water
that make water less desirable or unfit for drinking.
5. Drinking-water– water intended for direct human consumption or for use in food
preparation and related processes.
6. Emergency - any situation in which there is actual disruption or damage to
communities, i.e., any actual threat to public health and safety.
7. Health-based targets – are measurable health, water quality or performance objectives
that are established based on a judgement of safety and on risk assessments of water-
borne hazards.
8. Limit of Quantitation (LOQ) – the analyte concentration that produces a signal
sufficiently stronger than the blank, such that it can be detected with a specified level
of reliability during routine operations. Typically, it is the concentration that produces
the signal above the reagent water blank signal, and should have a defined precision
and bias at that level.
9. Maximum Allowable Level (MAL) - the highest level of a contaminant that is allowed
in drinking-water.
10. Method Detection Limit (MDL) - the constituent/contaminant concentration that
when processed through the complete method, produces a signal with a 99% probability
that is different from the blank.
11. Mobile Water Tanks – tanks designed to deliver water for domestic use or emergency
purposes.
12. Potable/Safe Water – water with quality within the standard limits set in this PNSDW
both for acceptability and health aspects.
13. Surveillance – the continuous and vigilant public health assessment and review of
safety and acceptability of drinking-water supplies.

V. GENERAL GUIDELINES

1. Standards for drinking-water quality, water sampling and examination and evaluation
of results shall conform to the criteria prescribed under this Order and its Manual of
Operations.
2. To ensure the safety of drinking-water, the standards shall be applied in accordance to
the improved framework for drinking-water safety comprising of three key
components:
A. Health-based targets established by the health authority;
B. Safely managed water systems (application of water safety plan); and
C. A system of independent surveillance.

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VI. SPECIFIC GUIDELINES

The Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water of 2017 shall consist of the
following criteria:

1. Standards for Drinking-water Quality

A. Drinking-water must be clear and does not have objectionable taste, odor and color.
It must be pleasant to drink and free from all harmful organisms, chemical
substances and radionuclides in amounts which could constitute a hazard to the
health of the consumer.
B. The quality of drinking-water shall be measured in terms of its microbiological,
physical, chemical and radiological constituents. Refer to Annex A for the Standard
Values and Methods of Analysis.
C. The parameters of drinking-water quality shall be classified as mandatory, primary
and secondary. Refer to Annex B.

2. Standards for Water Sampling and Examination

A. Initial examination shall be conducted for new or newly constructed water sources
while periodic examination shall be done for existing water sources. Water samples
for initial and periodic examination from all water sources shall cover
microbiological, physical, chemical and radiological parameters. Refer to Annex C
for the Minimum Frequency of Sampling.
B. The minimum number of samples to be collected and examined periodically shall
be based on the source and mode of distribution of drinking-water supply. Refer to
Annex C.
C. The collection of water samples shall comply with the standard sampling
requirements. Refer to Annex D.
D. Only certified sampling personnel shall collect water samples for regulatory
purposes.
E. All water samples for regulatory purposes shall be examined only in DOH-
Accredited Laboratory. The standard methods of examination shall be based on the
“22nd edition (2012) of the Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and
Wastewater” unless otherwise stated in the Manual of Operations.
F. Examination of water samples for radiological quality shall be done by the
Philippine Nuclear Research Institute.

3. Standards for Other Modes of Distribution of Drinking-water

A. Drinking-water from refilling stations, vending machines, mobile tanks and bulk
water supply shall be subject for initial and periodic examinations for
microbiological, physical, chemical and radiological quality.
B. All standard values of mandatory parameters shall be applicable to product water
from refilling stations and vending machines, except for the standard values of pH
and total dissolved solids (TDS). The pH value shall be 5-7 while the TDS levels
of product water shall not exceed 10 mg/L to validate the efficiency of reverse
osmosis or distillation process.
C. Water from mobile tanks shall have chlorine residual (as free chlorine) of at least
0.5 mg/L but not to exceed to 1.50 mg/L at the point of delivery.

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 D. Bulk water supply shall maintain chlorine residual (as free chlorine) level between
0.3 mg/L to 1.5 mg/L or chlorine dioxide residual between 0.2 mg/L to 0.4 mg/L
prior to distribution.
E. All water-refilling stations, vending machines, mobile tanks and bulk water supply
shall comply with the standard minimum number of samples and frequency of
sampling requirements. Refer to Annex C.

4. Evaluation of Results
A. Expression of Results
a. Microbiological examination for drinking water shall provide the
numbers/presence of Total Coliform, E. coli/Thermotolerant Coliform, and
Heterotrophic Bacteria present in 100 mL of water.
b. All results from physico-chemical and radiological examinations that are not
detected shall be reported as less than the method detection limit (MDL). For
trace analysis, the MDL and level of quantitation (LOQ) shall be reflected in
the laboratory test report.

B. Interpretation of Results
a. Drinking-water service providers shall consult the DOH/Local Drinking
Water Quality Monitoring Committee (LDWQMC)/local health office for the
interpretation of results.
b. When E. coli/Thermotolerant Coliform is present in water, a sanitary survey
shall be conducted within 24 hours to determine the cause of contamination
which include resampling. If resampled water still contains E.
coli/Thermotolerant coliform, corrective actions should be applied. At the
same time, the drinking-water service provider shall issue an advisory to “boil
water” or other household water treatment options, or provide an alternative
drinking-water supply.
c. In case of exceedance of standard values of physical and chemical parameters,
monitoring shall be carried out for the next three (3) consecutive months
wherein all results must comply with the standards. If the results still exceed,
further study must be done to determine the cause of contamination for proper
identification of corrective actions.

5. Classification of Drinking-Water Quality Parameters

A. Mandatory Parameters
a. Mandatory parameters are legally enforceable. These core parameters shall be
required for examination by all drinking-water service providers. The criteria
used for selection of mandatory core parameters are: parameters that directly
affect health through acute or chronic exposure and/or will render the water
unacceptable for drinking; indicate the possible presence of other contaminants;
exceed tolerable values/standards based on local monitoring data of the previous
years; have wide spatial distribution across the Philippines based on local
monitoring data; and viable indicators for general quality and stability of water
supply.

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 b. The frequency of testing for mandatory parameters, except for E.
coli/Thermotolerant Coliform and residual disinfectant, may be reduced to
every three (3) years if the LDWQMC found the consolidated water quality
reports showed undetectable levels (below MDL) of a particular mandatory
parameter for three (3) consecutive years.
c. The mandatory parameters are the minimum parameters required to be tested
for initial and periodic examinations. However, the mandatory parameters
may include additional parameters from the list of primary and secondary as
determined by the LDWQMC. The additional parameters shall be based on
the result of the risk assessment of the water sources where potential
contamination from the natural or anthropogenic activities may occur.
B. Primary parameters
a. Primary parameters are site-specific. These are chemical impurities in water
that directly affect health through acute or chronic exposure.
b. Primary parameters can also be adopted as enforceable parameters, in addition
to the mandatory parameters.
C. Secondary parameters
a. Secondary parameters are those that render the water unacceptable for
drinking.
b. These include operational parameters which affect the efficiency of the
treatment processes.
D. Emergency Drinking-Water Parameters
a. During the first 72 hours, temporary supply of water shall be provided by the
local government unit (LGU). Water should be disinfected as a minimum
treatment (i.e. boiling, chlorination, etc.). Mobile treatment plant can be used
as an alternative source of water.
b. The water supply shall be monitored daily for at least seven (7) days by the
LGU and other respondents in terms of residual chlorine, and E. coli. The
acceptable level of residual chlorine shall be 0.5 mg/L and a maximum level
of 1.5 mg/L. E .coli should be absent per 100 mL sample.
c. Regular monitoring shall resume after normal condition has been declared by
the appropriate government agency.
E. Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Parameters
a. Relative to Target 6.1.1 of the SDG in achieving universal and equitable
access to safe and affordable drinking water for all by 2030, the population
should be using safely managed drinking water services.
b. This entails that the population uses a drinking water source which is located
on premises, available when needed, and free of fecal and priority chemical
contamination.

6. Quality Assurance/Quality Control for Water Laboratories

A. Only laboratories accredited by the DOH shall perform drinking-water quality
examination for regulatory purposes.
B. All accredited laboratories shall provide highest quality service through the
establishment, documentation, and effective operation of a Quality System (QS).
C. The laboratory personnel involved in water sampling shall be certified by the DOH.

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 7. Water Safety Plan (WSP) and Drinking-water Quality Surveillance
A. The implementation of WSP approach can secure the safety of drinking-water. It
utilizes a risk assessment and risk management approach that encompasses all steps
in the water supply system, from catchment/source to consumers.
B. All drinking-water service providers shall be required to prepare WSP as provided
by the DOH Administrative Order No. 2014 – 0027 “National Policy on Water
Safety Plan for All Drinking-Water Service Providers”, dated September 4, 2014.
C. The WSP of a drinking-water service provider shall be subject for review and
approval as provided by the DOH Administrative Order No. 2017-0006 “Guidelines
for the Review and Approval of the Water Safety Plans of Drinking-Water Service
Providers“, dated April 20, 2017.
D. The WSP shall be developed to meet health-based targets consistent with the
Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water.
E. The drinking-water quality surveillance agency shall ensure that monitoring of the
WSP implementation and its effectiveness meets the Philippine National Standards
for Drinking Water. The surveillance activity shall include audit and direct
assessment approaches.

VII. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Department of Health
a. Develop systems and procedures to operationalize this Order.
b. Ensure compliance of all drinking-water service providers and operators to
this Order.
c. Perform independent surveillance of drinking-water service providers.
d. Provide technical assistance to the local government units, drinking-water
service providers and to the general public.
e. Accredit water laboratories, certify training providers and water sampling
personnel.
B. Local Government Unit
a. Enforce the provisions of this Order.
b. Develop and implement drinking water quality surveillance program.
c. Establish a local drinking water quality monitoring committee.
d. Advocate and create awareness to general population on the importance of
drinking water quality standards, impact of water contamination on health,
and control measures on addressing water quality issues and problems.
C. Water Laboratory
a. Comply with the provisions of this Order.
b. Secure accreditation from the Department of Health.
c. Implement QS and develop a manual of operations describing the laboratory’s
policies and plans for ensuring the quality of their work provided to the public.
D. Drinking-Water Service Provider/Operator of Establishment and Building
a. Comply with the provisions of this Order.
b. Develop and implement WSP.
c. Institute corrective actions for any unsatisfactory results of water sampling.
d. Submit to the accredited laboratories water samples for examination in a
manner and at such intervals prescribed under this Order.
e. Submit results of water quality testing to the local health authority.
f. Educate consumers on how to keep drinking-water safe at all times.

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VIII. PENAL PROVISION

As provided in Sec. 103 of the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines (PD No. 856):
A. Any person who shall violate, disobey, refuse, omit or neglect to comply with any
of the provisions of this Order, shall be guilty of misdemeanor and upon conviction
shall be punished by imprisonment for a period of not exceeding six (6) months or
by a fine of not exceeding Php 1,000.00 or both depending upon the discretion of
the court.
B. Any person who shall interfere with or hinder, or oppose any officer, agent or
member of the Department or of the bureaus and offices under it, in the performance
of his duty as such under this Order, or shall tear down, mutilate, deface or alter any
placard, or notice, affixed to the premises in the enforcement of this Order, shall be
guilty of a misdemeanor and punishable upon conviction by imprisonment for a
period of not exceeding six (6) months or by a fine of not exceeding Php 1,000.00
or both depending upon the discretion of the court.

IX. SEPARABILITY CLAUSE

In the event that any rule, section, paragraph, sentence, clause, or word of this Order is
declared invalid for any reason, the other provisions thereof shall not be affected thereby.

X. REPEALING CLAUSE

Administrative Order No. 2007 – 0012 (2007 PNSDW) is hereby repealed. All laws, rules
and regulations and administrative issuances or parts thereof inconsistent with the provisions
of these standards are hereby repealed or amended accordingly.

XI. EFFECTIVITY

This order takes effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in an official gazette or in a
newspaper of general circulation.

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List of Annexes

Annex Table Title

A A-1 Standard Values, Methods of Detection and Points of Compliance for Microbiological Quality
of Drinking-Water
A-2 Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Inorganic Chemical Parameters of Drinking-
Water
A-3 Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Organic Chemical Parameters from Industrial
Pollution of Drinking-Water
A-4 Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Organic Chemical Parameters (Pesticides) of
Drinking-Water
A-5 Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Physical and Chemical Quality for Acceptability
Aspects of Drinking-Water
A-6 Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Treatment Chemicals Used in
Treatment and Disinfection and Disinfection by-products of Drinking-Water
A-7 Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Radiological Parameters

B B-1 Mandatory Drinking-Water Quality Parameters

B-2 Primary Drinking-Water Quality Parameters
B-3 Secondary Drinking-Water Quality Parameters

C C-1 Minimum Frequency of Sampling for Microbiological Examination of Drinking-Water

C-2 Minimum Frequency of Sampling for Mandatory Physical and Chemical Parameters
C-3 Minimum Frequency of Sampling for Radiological Parameters
C-4 Minimum Frequency of Sampling for Mandatory Microbiological and Physico-Chemical
Parameters for Other Modes of Distribution of Drinking-Water

D D-1 Sampling Requirements for Inorganic Parameters

D-2 Sampling Requirements for Organic Parameters
D-3 Sampling Requirements for Physical and Chemical Parameters for Acceptability Aspects
D-4 Sampling Requirements for Radiological Parameters

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 Annex A
Table A-1. Standard Values, Methods of Detection and Points of Compliance for
Microbiological Quality of Drinking-Water

Parameter Standard Values Methods of Analysis Point of Compliance

(SMEWW 22nd ed.)
1. Total Coliform MTFT: ● 9221 Multiple Tube ● Consumer’s taps
< 1.1 MPN/ 100 Fermentation Technique ● Water treatment
mL works/plants
EST: ● 9223 Enzyme Substrate ● Water refilling stations
Absent or <1 Coliform Test* ● Water vending machines
MPN/100 mL ● Mobile treatment devices
● Point of use treatment
MFT: ● 9222B Standard Total devices
< 1 total coliform Coliform Membrane Filter ● Water haulers
colonies / 100 mL Technique ● Bulk Water
● 9222CDelayed Incubation
Total Coliform Procedure*
● 9222H Simultaneous
Detection of Total
Coliform and E. coli by
Dual-Chromogen
Membrane Filter
Technique*
2. Thermotolerant MTFT: ● 9221 Multiple Tube ● Point sources
Coliform/E.coli < 1.1 MPN/ 100 Fermentation Technique ● Consumer’s taps
mL ● 9221 E1 Thermotolerant ● Water treatment works
Coliform Test (EC ● Water refilling stations
medium) ● Water vending machines
● 9221 E2 Thermotolerant ● Mobile treatment devices
Coliform Test (A-1 ● Point of use treatment
medium)* devices
EST: ● 9223 Enzyme Substrate ● Water haulers
Absent or <1 Coliform Test* ● Bulk Water
MPN/100 mL ● Food Establishments
MFT: ● 9222B Standard Total ● All buildings
< 1 thermotolerant Coliform Membrane Filter ● Ice Plants
coliform colonies / Technique
100 mL
3. Heterotrophic <500 CFU/mL ● 9215 B Pour Plate Method ● Consumer’s taps
Plate Count ● 9215 C Spread Plate ● Water treatment works
(HPC) Method ● Water refilling stations
● 9215 D Membrane Filter ● Water vending machines
Method ● Mobile treatment devices
● Point of use treatment
devices
● Water haulers
● Bulk Water
● Food Establishments
● All buildings
● Ice Plants

MTFT: Multiple Tube Fermentation Technique, MPN: Most Probable Number

EST: Enzyme Substrate Test, CFU: Colony Forming Units
MFT: Membrane Filter Technique,*should be verified and approved by the DOH

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Table A-2. Summary of Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Inorganic Chemical
Parameters of Drinking-Water

Parameter Chemical Maximum Methods of Analysis

Abstracts Allowable
Service Level (MAL)
(CAS)
No.

1. Antimony 7440-36-0 0.02 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

(Sb) · 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric Method
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass
Spectrometry

2. Arsenic(As) 7440-38-2 0.01 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

· 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 G. Nitric Acid-Sulfuric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3114 B. Manual Hydride
Generation/Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric Method
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass
Spectrometry Method

3. Barium (Ba) 7440-39-3 0.70 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

· 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3111 D. Direct Nitrous Oxide-Acetylene
Flame Method
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass
Spectrometry Method

4. Boron (B) 7440-42-8 2.00 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

· 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 G. Nitric Acid-Sulfuric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method

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 Parameter Chemical Maximum Methods of Analysis
Abstracts Allowable
Service Level (MAL)
(CAS)
No.

· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass

Spectrometry Method
4500B B. Curcumin Method
4500B C. Carmine Method

5. Cadmium 7440-43-9 0.003 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

(Cd) · 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass
Spectrometry Method

6. Chromium, 7440-47-3 0.05 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

Total (Cr) · 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric Method
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass
Spectrometry Method

7. Cyanide, 57-12-5 0.50 mg/L · 4500-CN- D. Titrimetric Method

Total (CN-) · 4500-CN- E. Colorimetric Method
· 4500-CN- F. Cyanide-Selective Electrode
Method

8. Fluoride (F-) 16984-48- 1.50 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

8 · Preliminary Distillation
B. Instrumentation
· 4110 B. Ion Chromatography with
Chemical Suppression of Eluent
Conductivity
· 4110 C. Single-Column Ion
Chromatography with Direct Conductivity
Detection
· 4500-F- C. Ion-selective Electrode Method

9. Lead (Pb) 7439-92-1 0.01 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

· 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method

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 Parameter Chemical Maximum Methods of Analysis
Abstracts Allowable
Service Level (MAL)
(CAS)
No.

· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass

Spectrometry Method

10. Manganese N/A 0.4 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

(Mn) · 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3111 B. Direct Air-Acetylene Flame
Method
· 3111 C. Extraction/Air-Acetylene Flame
Method
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass
Spectrometry Method

11. Mercury, 7439-97-6 0.001 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

Total (Hg) · 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 G. Nitric Acid-Sulfuric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3112 B. Cold-Vapor Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass
Spectrometry Method
· EPA 245.7 / BS EN 13506 Atomic
Fluorescence Spectrometric Method
· EPA 7473 Thermal Decomposition,
Amalgamation, Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric Method

12. Nickel (Ni) 7440-02-0 0.07 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

· 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass
Spectrometry Method

13. Nitrate (NO3-) C-005 50.00 mg/L · 4110 B. Ion Chromatography with
Chemical Suppression of Eluent
Conductivity
· 4110 C. Single-Column Ion
Chromatography with Direct Conductivity
Detection

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 Parameter Chemical Maximum Methods of Analysis
Abstracts Allowable
Service Level (MAL)
(CAS)
No.

· 4500-NO3- B. Ultraviolet
Spectrophotometric Screening Method
· 4500-NO3- E. Cadmium Reduction Method
· 4500-NO3- I. Cadmium Reduction Flow
Injection Method
· 4140. Capillary Ion electrophoresis
· 4500-NO3- D. Nitrate Electrode Method

14.Nitrite (NO2-) C-005 3.00 mg/L · 4110 B. Ion Chromatography with

Chemical Suppression of Eluent
Conductivity
· 4110 C. Single-Column Ion
Chromatography with Direct Conductivity
Detection
· 4500-NO2- B. Colorimetric Method
· 4130. Flow Injection Analysis
· 4140. Capillary Ion electrophoresis
· 4500-NO2- B. Colorimetric (Diazotization)

15. Selenium (Se) 7782-49-2 0.04 mg/L A. Sample Preparation

· 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 G. Nitric Acid-Sulfuric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3114 B. Manual Hydride
Generation/Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric Method
· 3114 C. Continuous Hydride Generation
AAS
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic Absorption
Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass
Spectrometry Method

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Table A-3. Summary of Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Organic Chemical
Parameters from Industrial Pollution of Drinking-Water

Parameter Chemical Maximum Method of Analysis

Abstracts Allowable
Service Level
(CAS) (MAL)
No. (mg/L)
1. Benzene 71-43-2 0.01  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method
2. Benzo(a)pyrene 50-32-8 0.0007  6410B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction Gas
Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6440B. Liquid-Liquid Chromatographic
Method
3. Carbon Tetrachloride 56-23-5 0.004  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method
4. 1,2-Dichlorobenzene 95-50-1 1  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method
5. 1,4-Dichlorobenzene 106-46-7 0.3  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method
6. 1,2-Dichloroethane 107-06-2 0.03  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method
7. 1,2-Dichloroethene 156-59-2 0.05  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
(cis) Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
156-60-5 Method
(trans)  6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method
8. Dichloromethane 75-09-2 0.02  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method

9. Di(2-ethylhexyl) 117-81-7 0.008  6410B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction Gas

phthalate Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
10. Ethylbenzene 100-41-4 0.3  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method

15
 Parameter Chemical Maximum Method of Analysis
Abstracts Allowable
Service Level
(CAS) (MAL)
No. (mg/L)
11. Styrene 100-42-5 0.02  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method
12. Tetrachloroethene 127-18-4 0.04  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method
13. Toluene 108-88-3 0.7  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method
14. Vinyl Chloride 75-01-4 0.0003  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method

15. Xylenes (total) 1330-20-7 0.5  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-Column
Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary Column
Gas Chromatographic Method

16
Table A-4. Summary of Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Organic Chemical
Parameters (Pesticides) of Drinking-Water

Parameter Chemical Maximu Method of Analysis

Abstracts m
Service Allowable
(CAS) Level
No. (mg/L)
1. Aldrin and Dieldrin Aldrin: 0.00003  6410B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
(combined) 309-00-2 Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
Dieldrin:  6630B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
60-57-1 Gas Chromatographic Method I
 6630C. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic Method II
2. Atrazine and its chloro-s-triazine 1912-24-9 0.1  USEPA 525.2 Gas
metabolites Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
 6630C. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic Method II
3. Carbofuran 1563-66-2 0.007  6610B. High-Performance Liquid
Chromatographic Method
4. Chlordane 57-74-9 0.0002  6410B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
 6630B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic Method I
 630C. Liquid-Liquid Extraction Gas
Chromatographic Method II
5. 1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane 96-12-8 0.001  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-
(DBCP) Column Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary
Column Gas Chromatographic
Method
 6231B Liquid-liquid extraction- Gas
Chromatographic Method
6. Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane 50-29-3 0.001  6410B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
(DDT) Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
 6630B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic Method I
 6630C. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic Method II
7. Endrin 72-20-8 0.0006  6410B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
 6630B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic Method I
 6630C. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic Method II

8. Ethylene Dibromide or 1,2- 106-93-4 0.0004  6200B. Purge and Trap Capillary-
Dibromoethane Column Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary
Column Gas Chromatographic
Method
9. Glyphosate 1071-83-6 1  6651B. Liquid Chromatographic
Post-Column Fluorescence Method

17
 Parameter Chemical Maximu Method of Analysis
Abstracts m
Service Allowable
(CAS) Level
No. (mg/L)
10. Lindane 58-89-9 0.002  6410B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
 6630B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction
Gas Chromatographic Method I
 6630C. Liquid-Liquid Extraction Gas
Chromatographic Method II
11. Pendimethalin 40487-42- 0.02  USEPA 525.2 Liquid-solid
1 extraction and capillary column Gas
Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry

18
Table A-5. Summary of Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Physical and Chemical
Quality for Acceptability Aspects of Drinking-Water

Parameter Chemical Maximum Methods of Analysis

Abstracts Allowable
Service Level (MAL)
(CAS) No.
1. Taste N/A No Sensory Evaluation Technique
objectionable
taste Testing of taste shall be based on consumers’
complaints.
2. Odor N/A No Sensory Evaluation Technique
objectionable
odor
3. Color (Apparent) N/A 10 CU 2120 B. Visual Comparison Method – for
apparent color only

4. Turbidity N/A 5 NTU 2130 B. Nephelometric Method

5. Aluminum (Al) N/A 0.2 mg/L A. Sample Preparation
(Aesthetic) · 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3500-Al B. Eriochrome Cyanine R
Method
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic
Absorption Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-
Mass Spectrometry Method
6. Chloride (Cl-) 16887-00-6 250 mg/L ● 4500 – Cl- B Argentometric method
● 4500 – Cl- D Potentiometric Method
● 4110 B. Ion Chromatography with
Chemical Suppression of Eluent
Conductivity
● 4110 C. Single-Column Ion
Chromatography with Direct Conductivity
Detection
7. Copper (Cu) N/A 1.0 mg/L A. Sample Preparation
· 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3111 B. Direct Air-Acetylene Flame
Method
· 3111 C. Extraction/Air-Acetylene Flame
Method
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic
Absorption Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-
Mass Spectrometry Method
· 3500-Cu C. Bathocuproine Method
8. Total Hardness N/A 300 mg/L 2430 C EDTA Titrimetric method
9. Hydrogen sulfide 7783-06-4 0.05 mg/L ● 4500 S2- D. Methylene Blue Method
(H2S) ● 4500 S2- E. Gas Dialysis, Automated
Methylene Blue Method

19
 Parameter Chemical Maximum Methods of Analysis
Abstracts Allowable
Service Level (MAL)
(CAS) No.
● 4500 S2- I. Distillation, Methylene Blue
Flow Injection Analysis Method
● 4500 S2- F. Iodometric Method
10. Iron (Fe) N/A 1.0 mg/L A. Sample Preparation
· 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3111 B. Direct Air-Acetylene Flame
Method
· 3111 C. Extraction/Air-Acetylene Flame
Method
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic
Absorption Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-
Mass Spectrometry Method
· 3500-Fe B. Phenanthroline Method
11. pH N/A 6.5 – 8.5 4500-H+ B. Electrometric Method
12. Sodium (Na) N/A 200 mg/L A. Sample Preparation
· 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3111 B. Direct Air-Acetylene Flame
Method
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic
Absorption Spectrometric
· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma
Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-
Mass Spectrometry Method
· 3500-Na B. Flame Emission Photometric
Method
13. Sulfate (SO42-) 14808-79-8 250 mg/L ● 4110 B. Ion Chromatography with
Chemical Suppression of Eluent
Conductivity
● 4140 B. Capillary Ion Electrophoresis
with Indirect UV Detection
● 4500-SO42- C. Gravimetric method with
Ignition of Residue
● 4500- SO42- D. Gravimetric Method with
Drying of Residue
● 4500- SO42- E. Turbidimetric Method
● 4500- SO42- F. Automated Methylthymol
Blue Method
● 4500- SO42- G. Methylthymol Blue Flow
Injection Analysis
14. Total Dissolved N/A 600 mg/L 2540 C. Total Dissolved Solids Dried at
Solids 180˚C

20
 Parameter Chemical Maximum Methods of Analysis
Abstracts Allowable
Service Level (MAL)
(CAS) No.
15. Zinc (Zn) N/A 5.0 mg/L A. Sample Preparation
· 3030 E. Nitric Acid Digestion
· 3030 F. Nitric Acid-Hydrochloric Acid
Digestion
· 3030 K. Microwave-Assisted Digestion
B. Instrumentation
· 3111 B. Direct Air-Acetylene Flame
Method
· 3113 B. Electrothermal Atomic
Absorption Spectrometric
· 3111 C. Extraction/Air-Acetylene Flame
Method

· 3120 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma

Method
· 3125 B. Inductively Coupled Plasma-
Mass Spectrometry Method
· 3500-Zn B. Zincon Method

21
Table A-6. Summary of Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Treatment Chemicals
Used in Treatment and Disinfection and Disinfection by-products of Drinking-Water

Parameter Chemical Maximum Method of Analysis

Abstracts Allowable
Service Level (mg/L)
(CAS)
No.
a. Contaminants from Treatment Chemicals
1. Acrylamide 79-06-1 0.0005  USEPA 8316 High-performance
Liquid Chromatography with UV
Detection
2. Epichlorohydrin 106-89-8 0.0004  6200 B. Purge and Trap Capillary-
Column Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method

b. Disinfection Chemicals
1. Chlorine Dioxide Residual 10049-04-4 0.2 min and 0.4  Colorimeter-Refer to manufacturer’s
max1 manual provided with the test equipt.
2. Chlorine Residual (as free Chlorine: 0.3 min and 1.5  DPD Colorimetric Method –Refer to
chlorine) 7782-50-5 max manufacturer’s manual provided with
the test kit

c. Disinfection By-Products
1. Bromate 15541-45-4 0.01  4110 B. Ion Chromatography with
Chemical Suppression of Eluent
Conductivity
 4110 C. Single-Column Ion
Chromatography with Direct
Conductivity Detection
 4110 D. Ion Chromatographic
Determination of Oxyhalides and
Bromide
2. Chlorate 7775-09-9 0.7  4110 B. Ion Chromatography with
Chemical Suppression of Eluent
Conductivity
 4110 C. Single-Column Ion
Chromatography with Direct
Conductivity Detection
 4110 D. Ion Chromatographic
Determination of Oxyhalides and
Bromide
3. Chlorite 7758-19-2 0.7  4110 B. Ion Chromatography with
Chemical Suppression of Eluent
Conductivity
 4110 C. Single-Column Ion
Chromatography with Direct
Conductivity Detection
 4110 D. Ion Chromatographic
Determination of Oxyhalides and
Bromide
4. Dibromoacetonitrile 3252-43-5 0.07  Gas Chromatography / Electron
Capture Detector

1Note: WHO 2011 did not specify any guideline values for chlorine dioxide because of its rapid hydrolysis to chlorite. In
addition, the provisional guideline value for chlorite (i.e. 0.7 mg/L) is considered to be adequately protective against potential
toxicity from chlorine dioxide. The taste and odor threshold for this compound is 0.4 mg/L [4]

22
 Parameter Chemical Maximum Method of Analysis
Abstracts Allowable
Service Level (mg/L)
(CAS)
No.
5. Dichloroacetate 79-43-6 0.05  Gas Chromatography / Electron
Capture Detector
 Gas Chromatography / Mass
Spectrometry
 6251 B. Micro Liquid-Liquid
Extraction Gas Chromatographic
Method
6. Dichloroacetonitrile 3018-12-0 0.02  Gas Chromatography / Electron
Capture Detector
 5710 D. Formation of Other
Disinfection By-Products (DBPs)
 USEPA 551.1
7. Monochloroacetate 79-11-8 0.02  6251 B. Micro Liquid-Liquid
Extraction Gas Chromatographic
Method
8. Trichloroacetate 76-03-9 0.2  6251 B. Micro Liquid-Liquid
Extraction Gas Chromatographic
Method
9. 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol 88-06-2 0.2  6251 B. Micro Liquid-Liquid
Extraction Gas Chromatographic
Method
 6410 B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction Gas
Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Method
 6420 B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction Gas
Chromatographic Method
Trihalomethanes
10. Bromoform 75-25-2 0.1  6040 B. Closed-Loop Stripping, Gas
Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Analysis;
 6200 B. Purge and Trap Capillary-
Column Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary –
Column Gas Chromatographic
Method
 6232 B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction Gas
Chromatographic Method
11.Bromodichloromethane 75-27-4 0.06  6040 B. Closed-Loop Stripping, Gas
(BDCM) Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Analysis;
 6200 B. Purge and Trap Capillary-
Column Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary –
Column Gas Chromatographic
Method
 6232 B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction Gas
Chromatographic Method
12. Chloroform 67-66-3 0.3  6200 B. Purge and Trap Capillary-
Column Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary –
Column Gas Chromatographic
Method

23
 Parameter Chemical Maximum Method of Analysis
Abstracts Allowable
Service Level (mg/L)
(CAS)
No.
 6232 B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction Gas
Chromatographic Method
13.Dibromochloromethane 124-48-1 0.1  6040 B. Closed-Loop Stripping, Gas
(DBCM) Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric
Analysis;
 6200 B. Purge and Trap Capillary-
Column Gas Chromatographic/Mass
Spectrometric Method
 6200 C. Purge and Trap Capillary –
Column Gas Chromatographic
Method
 6232 B. Liquid-Liquid Extraction Gas
Chromatographic Method
14. Total THM N/A 1 The sum of the ratio of the
concentration of each to its maximum
allowable level should not exceed 1.

24
Table A-7. Standard Values and Methods of Analysis for Radiological Parameters

Radionuclides Analysis Screening Level Methods of Analysis

1. Gross alpha 0.5 Bq/L ● 7110 B. Evaporation Method for Gross
Alpha-Beta
● 7110 C. Co-precipitation Method for
Gross Alpha Radioactivity in Drinking
Water
● Low Level Liquid Scintillation Counting
2. Gross beta 1.0 Bq/L ● 7110 B. Evaporation Method for Gross
Alpha-Beta
● 7110 C. Co-precipitation Method for
Gross Alpha Radioactivity in Drinking
Water
● Low Level Liquid Scintillation Counting
3. Radon 11.0 Bq/L ● 7500-Rn B. Liquid Scintillation Method
MCL-maximum
contaminant level
[EPA 2000]
Guidance Level
4. Gamma* (Ra-226) 1 Bq/L ● 7120 B. Gamma Spectroscopic Method
5. Gamma* (Ra-228) 0.1 Bq/L ● 7120 B. Gamma Spectroscopic Method
6. Gamma* (Sr-90, I- 10 Bq/L ● 7120 B. Gamma Spectroscopic Method
131, Cs-134, Cs-137)
7. Tritium* (H-3) 10,000 Bq/L ● 7500-3H B. Liquid Scintillation
Spectrometric Method
*Gamma and Tritium in drinking water are analyzed only during emergency situations such as nuclear accidents and
radioactive material spills and leakages.

25
 Annex B
Table B-1. Mandatory Drinking-Water Quality Parameters

No. Parameter Sampling Location*

1 Thermotolerant Coliform Treatment Plant Outlet/Source
E. coli and Consumers’ Taps
2 Arsenic (As) Treatment Plant Outlet/Source
3 1. Cadmium (Cd) Consumers’ Taps
4 Lead (Pb) Consumers’ Taps
5 Nitrate (NO3-) Treatment Plant Outlet/Source
6 Color (Apparent) Treatment Plant Outlet/Source
and Consumers’ Taps
7 Turbidity Consumers’ Taps
8 pH Treatment Plant Outlet/Source
and Consumers’ Taps
9 Total Dissolved Solids Treatment Plant Outlet/Source
10 Disinfectant Residual Treatment Plant Outlet/Source
and Consumers’ Taps
*applicable to all Level II and Level III water facilities

26
Table B-2. Primary Drinking-Water Quality Parameters

No. Parameter No. Parameter

1 1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP) 29 Dibromochloromethane (DBCM)
2 1,2-Dichlorobenzene 30 Dibromoacetonitrile
3 1,2-Dichloroethane 31 Dichloroacetate
4 1,2-Dichloroethene 32 Dichloroacetonitrile
5 1,4-Dichlorobenzene 33 Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)
6 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol 34 Dichloromethane
7 Acrylamide 35 Endrin
8 Aldrin and Dieldrin 36 Epichlorohydrin
9 Alpha Particles 37 Ethylbenzene
10 Atrazine 38 Ethylene Dibromide
11 Antimony 39 Fluoride
12 Barium 40 Glyphosate
13 Benzene 41 Lindane
14 Benzo(a)pyrene (PAHs) 42 Manganese
15 Beta Particles 43 Mercury (Total)
16 Boron 44 Monochloroacetate
17 Bromate 45 Nickel
18 Bromodichloromethane (BDCM) 46 Nitrite
19 Bromoform 47 Pendimethalin
20 Carbon Tetrachloride 48 Radon
21 Carbofuran 49 Sulfate
22 Chlorate 50 Selenium
23 Chlordane 51 Styrene
24 Chlorite 52 Tetrachloroethene
25 Chloroform 53 Trichloroacetate
26 Chromium (Total) 54 Toluene
27 Cyanide (Total) 55 Total Trihalomethane (THM)
28 Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate 56 Vinyl chloride

Table B-3. Secondary Drinking-Water Quality Parameters

No. Parameter No. Parameter

1 Aluminum 7 Odor
2 Chloride 8 Sodium
3 Copper 9 Taste
4 Total Hardness 10 Xylenes (total)
5 Hydrogen Sulfide 11 Zinc
6 Iron

27
 Annex C
Table C-1. Minimum Frequency of Sampling for Microbiological Examination of Drinking-
Water

Source and Mode Population Minimum Frequency of Sampling for Minimum Point of
of Supply Served Total Coliform and Thermotolerant Frequency of Compliance
coliform/E.coli* Sampling for
Heterotrophic
Plate Count
(HPC)*

1. Level I - 1 sample every three (3) months Not required Point source

2. Level II - 1 sample every other month 1 sample every other Communal

month faucet
(required if treated)

3. Level III Less than 2 samples monthly 2 samples monthly Consumer’s

5,000 tap

5,000 – 1 sample per 5,000 population + 2 1 sample per 5,000 Consumer’s

100,000 additional samples monthly population + 2 tap
additional samples
monthly

More than 1 sample per 10,000 population, plus 12 Required, at least Consumer’s
100,000 additional samples monthly 40% of the sampling tap
points
Collection of samples should be spread
out within a month

Compliance to total coliform: At least

95% of standard samples taken in each
month from each reservoir and
distribution point is total coliform
negative, provided that thermotolerant
coliform is absent

Compliance to thermotolerant coliform:

No samples should test positive for
thermotolerant coliform

4. All buildings Less than 1 sample every other month 1 sample every other Consumer’s
(i.e. residential, or equal to month tap
commercial, 600
industrial and
institutional More than 1 sample monthly Once a month Consumer’s
buildings) 600 tap

5. Food - 1 sample every other month 1 sample every other Consumer’s

Establishments month tap

6. Ice Plants - Once a month Once a month Product ice

* Refer to Table 1 for specific microbiological point of compliance

28
 Table C-2. Minimum Frequency of Sampling for Mandatory Physical and Chemical Parameters

Source and Mode of Supply Population Number of Sampling Location

Served Per Samples/Frequency of
Supply System Sampling
1. Level I (Point Source) - One sample per year Point Source
2. Level II (Communal - One sample per year Refer to Table B-1
Faucet)
3. Level III 49,999 and below One sample per year
50,000 and above One sample for every 250,000
population served per year
4. All buildings - One sample per year Consumers’ taps
(i.e. residential,
industrial, commercial, Parameters to be tested:
and institutional ● Water from main utilities:
buildings) Lead, color, odor, turbidity,
5. Food Establishments pH, TDS
● With own source of water:
All mandatory parameters
6. Ice Plants ● Water from main utilities
and own source:
All mandatory parameters

Table C-3. Minimum Frequency of Sampling for Radiological Parameters

Type Frequency
Initial Four (4) consecutive quarters for one year
Periodic Once every three (3) years

29
Table C-4. Minimum Frequency of Sampling for Mandatory Microbiological and Physico-
Chemical Parameters for Other Modes of Distribution of Drinking-Water

Source Parameter Minimum Frequency of

Sampling
Water Refilling Total Coliform One sample per month
Station and Thermotolerant coliform/E. coli One sample per month
Water Vending Heterotrophic Plate Count One sample per month
Machines All mandatory physico- Two samples per year
chemical parameters
Mobile Water Microbiological (total coliform, Once a month
Tank and Bulk E. coli and HPC)
Water Supply All mandatory physico- Once a year
chemical
Water Refilling Other parameters identified by One sample per year or as may be
Station, Water the LDWQMC required by the LDWQMC
Vending
Machines,
Mobile Water
Tank, Bulk
Water Supply

30
 Annex D
Table D-1. Summary of Sampling Requirements for Inorganic Parameters

Minimum Volume Mode of Holding

Parameters Container Material
of Sample Preservation Time
1. Antimony Plastic/Polyethylene 100 mL Add HNO3 to pH < 28 days
or Glass containers 2
rinsed with 50%
HNO3
2. Arsenic Plastic/Polyethylene 100 mL Add HNO3 to pH < 28 days
or Glass containers 2
rinsed with 50%
HNO3
3. Barium Plastic/Polyethylene 100 mL Add HNO3 to pH < 28 days
or Glass containers 2
rinsed with 50%
HNO3
4. Boron Polyethylene bottles 100 mL (Fill Store all reagents in 28 days
or alkali-resistant, container completely polyethylene or
boron-free glassware to exclude air) boron-free
containers
Fill container
completely to exclude
air
5. Cadmium Plastic/Polyethylene 100 mL Add HNO3 to pH < 28 days
or Glass containers 2
rinsed with 50%
HNO3
6. Chromium Plastic/Polyethylene 100 mL Add HNO3 to pH < 28 days
(Total) or Glass containers 2
rinsed with 50%
HNO3
7. Cyanide (Total) Dark 500 mL Add NaOH to 24 hours
Polyethylene/Plastic pH>12.
or Glass bottle Remove sulfide
Refrigerate in the
dark.
8. Fluoride Preferred: 200 mL None required 28 days
Polyethylene bottles

Glass bottles if bottle

does not contain
high-fluoride
solutions
Polytetrafluoroethyle
ne (PTFE) containers
are
not suitable
9. Lead Plastic/Polyethylene 100 mL Add HNO3 to pH < 28 days
or Glass containers 2
rinsed with 50%
HNO3
10. Manganese Acidified 1 liter Acidify sample at 28 days
Polyethylene bottle the time of
collection with
HNO3 to pH <2

11. Mercury (Total) Glass containers 500 mL Add HNO3 to 28 days

rinsed with 50% unfilteredsample to
HNO3 pH <1.

31
 Minimum Volume Mode of Holding
Parameters Container Material
of Sample Preservation Time
Add K2Cr2O3
12. Nickel Plastic or Glass bottle 500 mL Add HNO3 to pH <2 6 months
13. Nitrate Glass or 500 mL Refrigerate 24 hours
Plastic/Polyethylene (unfiltered samples)
container Filter on site 1 month –
(0.45 m cellulose consult
acetate membrane analyst
filter and freeze) depending on
analytical
method
14. Nitrite Glass or Colorimetric Method: Freeze at -200C or 1 to 2 days
Plastic/Polyethylene 50 mL sample store at 40C.
container
15. Selenium Plastic/Polyethylene 100 mL Add HNO3 to pH < 28 days
or Glass containers 2
rinsed with 50%
HNO3
Sources: APHA 22nd ed., 2007 PNSDW, 2011 ADWG

32
Table D-2. Summary of Sampling Requirements for Organic Parameters

Minimum
Container Holding
Parameters Volume of Mode of Preservation
Material Time
Sample
Industrial Pollutants
1. Benzene Screw-cap 2 x 40 mL  Cool, ≤6oC 14 days
vial with a  For samples that contain
hole in the volatile constituents but
center and do not contain residual
TFE-faced chlorine, add HCl to pH
silicone <2.0(4 drops, 1:1 HCl)
septum  For samples that contain
residual chlorine, add
1000 mg ascorbic acid/L
or 0.008% sodium
thiosulfate
2. Benzo(a)pyrene Amber glass 1 liter  Cool, ≤6oC 7 days until
bottles with a  For samples that extraction; 40
screw cap contain residual days after
lined with chlorine, add 1000 extraction
TFE mg ascorbic acid/L or
0.008% sodium
thiosulfate
3. Carbon Tetrachloride See Benzene
4. 1,2-Dichlorobenzene See Benzene
5. 1,4-Dichlorobenzene See Benzene
6. 1,2-Dichloroethane See Benzene
7. 1,2-Dichloroethene See Benzene
8. Dichloromethane See Benzene
9. Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate See Benzo(a)pyrene
10. Ethylbenzene See Benzene
11. Styrene See Benzene
12. Tetrachloroethene See Benzene
13. Toluene See Benzene
14. Vinyl Chloride See Benzene
15. Xylenes (total) See Benzene
Pesticides
1. Aldrin and Dieldrin See Benzo(a)pyrene
Amber glass 1 liter  Cool, ≤6o CFor 7 days until
bottles filled samples that contain extraction; 40
with a screw residual chlorine, add days after
cap lined with 1000 mg ascorbic extraction
TFE. acid/L or 0.008%
sodium thiosulfate

2. Atrazine See Aldrin and Dieldrin

3. Carbofuran Amber glass None  Add a sufficient 28 days
bottles fitted specified amount of potassium
with dihydrogen citrate to
polytetrafluor yield a concentration in
oethylene the sample of 9.2 to 9.5
(PTFE)-lined g/L to prevent
screw caps. hydrolysis of oxamyl,
3-hydroxycarbofuran,
carbaryl, and
methiocarb
 Add sodium thiosulfate
to yield a sample
concentration in the
range of 80 to 320

33
 Minimum
Container Holding
Parameters Volume of Mode of Preservation
Material Time
Sample
mg/L to eliminate
residual chlorine
 During transport: Ice,
temperature should not
exceed 10 degrees
Celsius during the first
48 hours after
collection
 In the laboratory: Store
samples at temperature
below 6 degrees
Celsius and protect
from light until
extraction. Do not
freeze sample
4. Chlordane See Benzo(a)pyrene
See Aldrin and Dieldrin
5. 1,2-Dibromo-3- See Benzene
chloropropane (DBCP)
6. Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroet See Benzo(a)pyrene
hane (DDT) See Aldrin and Dieldrin
7. Endrin See Benzo(a)pyrene
See Aldrin and Dieldrin
8. Ethylene Dibromide or 1,2- See 1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP)
Dibromoethane See 1,2-Dichlorobenzene
See Benzene
9. Glyphosate Polypropylene 500 mL Add 100 mg/L sodium 14 days
or amber glass representat thiosulfate for chlorinated
container ive sample water and store at 4°C
away from light
10. Lindane See Aldrin and Dieldrin
Disinfection Chemicals and By-Products
1. Acrylamide See Benzene
2. Epichlorohydrin See Benzene
3. Chlorine Dioxide None None Analyse immediately -
specified specified
4. Chlorine Residual Plastic 500 mL Analyse immediately. Keep 5 minutes
(polyethylene out of direct sunlight
or equivalent)
or Glass
container
5. Bromate Glass or 500 mL Refrigerate 24 hours
Plastic/Polyet (unfiltered samples)
hylene Filter on site 1 month -
container (0.45 µm cellulose acetate Consult
membrane filter and freeze) analyst
depending on
analytical
method
6. Chlorate Glass or 500 mL Refrigerate 24 hours
Plastic/Polyet (unfiltered samples)
hylene Filter on site 1 month -
container (0.45 µm cellulose acetate Consult
membrane filter and freeze) analyst
depending on
analytical
method
7. Chlorite Glass or 500 mL Refrigerate 24 hours
Plastic/Polyet (unfiltered samples)

34
 Minimum
Container Holding
Parameters Volume of Mode of Preservation
Material Time
Sample
hylene Filter on site 1 month -
container (0.45 µm cellulose acetate Consult
membrane filter and freeze) analyst
depending on
analytical
method
8. Dibromoacetonitrile Glass vial 40-mL Cool, ≤6oC -14 Days
with TFE- -1 gram/ 60-ml amber glass
lined screw vial
caps (1% sodium phosphate
dibasic/99% potassium
phosphate monobasic +
0.6% ammonium chloride)
9. Dichloroacetate Screw-cap 25 or 40 Refrigerate at 4C -14 days
vial with a mL 21 days for
hole in the (depending sample
center and on vial extracts
TFE-faced used) freeze at -
silicone 11oC
septum; zero
headspace
10. Dichloroacetonitrile Glass vial 40-mL Cool, ≤6oC -14 Days
with TFE- -1 gram/ 60-ml amber glass
lined screw vial
caps (1% sodium phosphate
dibasic/99% potassium
phosphate monobasic +
0.6% ammonium chloride)
11. Monochloroacetate See Dichloroacetate
12. Trichloroacetate See Dichloroacetate
13. 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol See Dichloroacetate
See Benzo(a)pyrene
Amber glass 1 liter  Refrigerate at 4C 40 days
bottles with a  Add 80 g sodium
screw cap thiosulfate per liter of
lined with sample if residual
TFE chlorine is present
14. Bromoform See 1,2-Dichlorobenzene
See Benzene
Glass bottle 1 liter Chill to 4C 14 days
sealed with
TFE-lined
screw caps
15. Bromodichloromethane See 1,2-Dichlorobenzene
(BDCM) See Benzene
See Bromoform
16. Chloroform See Benzene
See Bromoform
17. Dibromochloromethane See 1,2-Dichlorobenzene
(DBCM) See Benzene
See Bromoform
Sources: APHA 22nd ed., 2011 ADWG

35
Table D-3. Summary of Sampling Requirements for Physical and Chemical Parameters for
Acceptability Aspects

Parameter Container Minimum Volume of Mode of Holding Time

Material Sample Preservation

1. Taste ● Glass-stoppered 500 mL Keep cool at ≤ 6 ⁰ C Not more than 6

bottles hrs
● TFE-lined
enclosures
2. Odor ● Glass-stoppered 500 mL Keep cool at ≤ 6 ⁰ C 6 hrs
bottles
● TFE-lined
enclosures
3. Color ● Acid-washed 100 mL Keep cool 24 hours
amber glass Analyze same day
bottles
● Covered plastic
bottles
4. Turbidity ● Polyethylene 100 mL Keep cool at ≤ 4˚C 24 hrs
bottle
● Glass bottle
5. Aluminum Acid-rinsed Plastic 25 mL or a portion Examine sample Examine sample
bottles diluted to 25 mL immediately immediately
(In absence of
fluoride and complex
phosphates)
6. Chloride ● Plastic bottle 100 mL (maximum No special 28 days
● Glass bottle sample portion) preservative is
or a suitable portion necessary
diluted to 100 mL
7. Copper Acidified 1 liter Use 0.5 mL 1 + 1 28 days
Polyethylene Bottle HCl/100mL sample
or acidify to pH <2
with HNO3

8. Total Hardness Plastic/Glass 500 mL Add HNO3 or 7 days

Container H2SO4

9. Hydrogen sulfide Glass bottle 100 mL Preserve using zinc ● 2 weeks for
acetate solution refrigerated
samples
● 1 month for
frozen
samples
10. Iron Acidified 50 mL Use 0.5 mL 1 + 1 28 days
Polyethylene Bottle HCl/100mL sample
or acidify to pH <2
with HNO3

11. pH Polyethylene 50 ml None required Analyze

bottles immediately or
not to exceed 6
hours after
sample
collection

36
 Parameter Container Minimum Volume of Mode of Holding Time
Material Sample Preservation

12. Sodium Polyethylene 1 liter None required 28 days

bottles
13. Sulfate ● Polyethylene 100 mL Keep cool at 4˚C 7 days
bottles
● Glass
bottles

14. Total ● Resistant-glass 500 mL Keep cool at 4˚C 7 days

Dissolved ● Plastic bottles
Solids
15. Zinc ● Quartz or TFE 50 mL ● Acidify with ● 6 months
containers concentrated nitric ● 5 weeks if
● Polypropylene acid to pH <2 sample
or linear ● Refrigerate at 4˚C contains
polyethylene mercury
with a
polyethylene cap
● Borosilicate
glass
Sources: APHA 22nd ed.,2007 PNSDW, 2011 ADWG

37
Table D-4. Summary of Sampling Requirements for Radiological Parameters

Minimum
Holding
Parameter Container Material Volume of Mode of Preservation
Time
Sample
1. Alpha Plastic (polyethylene or 1L Concentrated HNO3 or 28 days
equivalent) or Glass HCl to pH <2
container
2. Beta Plastic (polyethylene or 1L Concentrated HNO3 or 28 days
equivalent) or Glass HCl to pH <2
container
3. Radon Gas-tight PET bottles 1L Bottles are to be filled full 8 days
(up to the brim and no air
spaces); no acidification
required; samples are to be
brought to PNRI lab within
the day
4. Gamma Plastic container 2L Concentrated HNO3 or 6 months
HCl to pH <2
5. Tritium Plastic (polyethylene or 1L No preservative 6 months
equivalent) or Glass
container

38
Acknowledgement

The Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW) of 2017 is an achievement
of the several meetings, workshops, discussions, and consultations of the PNSDW Technical
Working Group (TWG), Project Management Team (PMT), and various stakeholders. The
contributions of all the participants are crucial to the development of this document.

We express our gratitude and appreciation to the representatives of the following agencies for
their full support and assistance in the preparation of the revised standards:

 the Department of Health for providing technical and administrative support during the
implementation of this project;
 the World Health Organization for providing technical and financial support, including
international consultants;
 the University of the Philippines College of Public Health for making available the
necessary manpower, expertise and resources in support of this endeavor;
 the Project Management Team and its advisers for initiating the vision, motivation, and
commitment to improve the quality of drinking-water in the country;
 and all other regulatory agencies, water service providers, and non-government
organizations who have actively participated and contributed their time, effort, and
expertise in the preparation and finalization of this document.

Technical Working Group (TWG) Members

Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Soils and Water Management
Patrick Benson B. Espanto
Teresita S. Sandoval
Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Environmental Management Bureau
Ma. Fatima Anneglo R. Molina
Department of Health - Disease Prevention and Control Bureau-
Maria Sonabel S. Anarna
Joselito M. Riego De Dios
Department of Science and Technology - Industrial Technology Development Institute
Admer Rey C. Dablio
Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Nuclear Research Institute
Raymond J. Sucgang
Department of Trade and Industry - Bureau of Philippine Standards
Ma. Teresita G. Del Rosario
Mario U. Gaudiano
Myra F. Magabilin
Rheychelle Jean A. Pidoc
Fertilizer and Pesticides Authority
Suzettie M. Alcaide
Local Water Utilities Administration
Danilo T. Basilio
Jessielen D. Catapang
Arturo B. Fernando
Manila Water Company
Bernaliza B. Espina
Gloria R. Mateo

39
Maynilad Water Services, Inc.
Francisco A. Arellano
Rise Anne M. Xavier
Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System-Regulatory Office
Evelyn B. Agustin
Isabel E. Visaya
National Reference Laboratory – East Avenue Medical Center
Nenita G. Marayag
National Water Resources Board
Belen I. Juarez
Archie C. Asuncion
Philippine Association of Water Districts
Alma L. Abrasaldo
Pantaleon Ll.Tabanao
World Health Organization (WHO)
Bonifacio B. Magtibay

Project Management Team Members

College of Public Health - University of the Philippines Manila
Romeo R. Quizon Adrian Paul M. Agravante
Vivien Fe F. Fadrilan-Camacho Pio Justin V. Asuncion
Marian Fe Theresa C. Lomboy Leira Ysabelle C. Barbosa
Victorio B. Molina Czarina Charmaine S. Diwa
Elma B. Torres (Project Consultant) Rose Abigail D. Enoveso
Bonifacio B. Magtibay (Project Adviser) Janel Priscilla C. See

International Consultants
David Cunliffe –DOH Australia Jennifer De France - WHO Geneva
Darryl Jackson- Consultant, Australia Richard Johnston - WHO Geneva

Stakeholders
Water Service Providers
Angeles City Water District Laguna Water District
Baguio Water District Lebak Water District
Balamban Water District Legazpi City Water District
Balayan Water District Limay Water District
Baliwag Water District Mambajao Water District
Bansalan Water District Manila Water Company Inc.
Batac Water District Maynilad Water Services Inc.
Batangas City Water District Metropolitan Cebu Water District
Boracay Island Water Metro Iloilo Water District
Bogo Water District Metro Kidapawan Water District
Butuan City Water District Metro Naga Water District
Cagayan de Oro City Water District Nabuturan Water District
Camarines Norte Water District Orani Water District
Catbalogan Water District San Francisco Water District
Catarman Water District San Rafael Water District
Compostela Water District Sanchez Mira Water District
Cebu Water St. Joseph Water Services - Laguna
Clark Water Surigao Metro Water District
Dapitan City Water District Talisay Water District
Dasmariñas Water District Tarlac Water District

40
 Davao City Water District Toledo City Water District
Digos Water District Water Refilling Station – Aqua Clean
General Santos City Water District Zamboanga City Water District
Laguna Water

Water Laboratories and Suppliers

Brownstone Asia-Tech Inc. Leads Animal Health and Natural
Cebu Aqua Lab, Inc. Solutions
Chempro Analytical Services Laboratory MACH Union Water Laboratory
Inc. National Reference Laboratory
CRL Environmental Corp. Optimal Laboratory Inc.
Eminent Water Laboratory Center Platinum Research Laboratory Inc.
Environmental Health Lab. Sanwad Water Laboratory
F.A.S.T. Laboratory – Cebu, Cubao USC Water Laboratory
HiAdvance Philippines Inc. Zamboanga WaterLab Inc.

Academe
Davao Medical School Foundation, Inc. University of the Philippines Los Baños
University of the Immaculate Conception University of Southeastern Philippines
University of the Philippines Diliman- University of Visayas
College of Engineering

Professional Organizations and Associations

AHFAT Seafood PCAZ LES Consultant
Dencio’s Kamayan MBG Davao City Ice Plant
Grand Menseng Hotel Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc.
Grand Regal Hotel Philippine Institute of Pure and Applied Chemistry
Health Care Zamboanga Pulo Balagtas Rural Waterworks & Sanitation
Integrated Chemists of the Philippines Association
J.V. Angeles Construction Co. Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers
League of Provinces of the Philippines Well Drillers Association of the Philippines
Philippine Society of Sanitary Engineers

Government Agencies and Regulators

Batangas City Planning &Development Health Facilities and Services Regulatory Bureau -
Office DOH
City Health Offices Local Water Utilities Administration
Department of Education – Region XI Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System-
Department of Public Works and Regulatory Office
Highways National Water Resources Board
Department of Trade and Industry- Provincial Health Offices
Bureau of Philippine Standards
Department of Science and Technology
Food and Drug Administration – DOH

41