ABSTRACT
Toxic levels of arsenic (As) in drinking water sources is an emerging concern in the Philippines. An investigation of groundwater quality and epidemiological symptoms of arsenicosis in 2014 confirmed the need for intervention in affected municipalities in Central Luzon. This study presents how scientific and policy analyses were undertaken by a multi-disciplinary team from the academe in partnership with a local government to respond to the impending crisis of As poisoning in their municipality. Groundwater samples were collected monthly from wells and analyzed for As concentrations for one year. Laboratory results determined the extent and location of barangays at risk and aided in selecting the site for a pilot As removal water treatment plant. Moreover, policy mapping with stakeholders were undertaken to determine courses of action to mitigate As exposure in all affected barangays. Adopting a transdisciplinary approach is thus recommended as a means to strengthen intervention sustainability.
