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 water resorts, including hot springs resorts and spas. The presence of hot springs is due to the geothermal activities in the area. This study explores 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 implementing policies and laws to regulate water use in these resorts.
These water resorts are estimated to consume large volumes of groundwater, which could result in over-extraction and a 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 resort 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.