Murky water, accompanied by foul odor, has been observed at a portion of the Sagop Creek in Sitio Magdalena, Barangay Concepcion Grande, Naga City, Camarines Sur for nearly two weeks.

This is reportedly rare because the water in the area is often clear. Residents raised a concern over the potential health hazards, especially to children and the elderly.

Even passing pedestrians have noticed the unusual condition.

“Mabangog, parang mabangogon. Iba man ang parong, dae mo maaraman anong klaseng parong — basta maparong. Ako gani kun napaparong ko iyan, naano ako kan dungo ko ta masungot,” a resident said.

“Makulog po sa dungo, lalo na ining mga aki. Kami nganing mga gurang na garo malainon pagparongon…. abot po iyan duman, sa may luwasan,” Elmer Estedes, another resident, said.

Lee Morphy Arquiano, a resident, moved his six children temporarily to their relative’s house, after his youngest child experienced stomachache reportedly due to the foul smell.

“Si bunso ko, iyo ito si nagkabag si tulak niya sa sobrang parong. Sana dae na po maulit. Kung sain man ito hali, sana maaraman kung sain siya nagpoon,” Aquiano said.

A formal request was sent to the Naga City Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO) to inspect establishments near the creek.

“Naggibo na po kita ning surat sa ENRO para mabisita su lugar, and madumanan and mapasimbag si establishment na naggibo kaiyan,” Jerrold Rito, the Barangay Captain, said.

The barangay suspects that a nearby commercial establishment might be responsible for the pollution.

Representatives from ENRO have visited the site for inspection on May 20, 2024 and continue their investigation.