Laguna Lake Might Become the Philippines’ Largest Septic Tank

Laguna Lake in Peril: Lawmaker Warns of Environmental Collapse Without Immediate Action

Laguna Lake, the Philippines' largest freshwater body, is on the brink of environmental catastrophe, according to Biñan City Representative Walfredo "Arman" Dimaguila Jr., who on Saturday sounded the alarm over its rapid degradation, warning it is becoming the country’s “largest septic tank.”

In a candid interview aired on DZRH News' Special on Saturday, Dimaguila called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and national agencies to treat the situation with urgency, citing worsening flooding, pollution, and public health risks in Southern Luzon and Metro Manila.

“Magkakaroon na po tayo ng pinakamalaking septic tank,” Dimaguila warned, stressing that the lake’s condition poses a disaster not just for Laguna or Rizal, but for the entire capital region. “Disaster ito sa Metro Manila.”

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The Laguna solon, who recently filed a House resolution, is urging Congress to summon the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) to review the effectiveness of current flood mitigation efforts and lake management strategies.

Dimaguila pointed to large-scale dredging as a more viable solution compared to ongoing flood control infrastructure projects, which he claimed have failed to address root causes and, in some instances, worsened flooding in surrounding communities.

“Napansin namin, hindi naman talaga iyon ang naging solusyon,” he said. “Mas lumala pa ang sitwasyon sa ibang lugar.”

Recalling his childhood in Barangay Malaban, Biñan, Dimaguila shared how the lake was once swimmable and teeming with life. “Ngayon, burak na po siya,” he said. “Walang tulya, walang halaman. It’s sludge from chest to knees now.”

He described a grim scenario of worsening water quality, with floodwaters rising over a meter in July and lingering for months in some barangays. Once a seven-year flood cycle, Dimaguila said inundations now occur more frequently—every two to three years—with some communities facing year-round waterlogging.

“More than 90,000 hectares ang ganito po ang sitwasyon,” he added, warning of disease outbreaks, displacement, and escalating public health threats. “Sa Metro Manila, isang oras lang ang baha. Sa amin, tatlong buwan.”

The lawmaker emphasized the need for science-based solutions and high-level political will, proposing a direct consultation between the President and local leaders, including Laguna Governor Sol Aragones.

“We’re not asking for endless committee hearings,” Dimaguila said. “Isang salpukan lang, matatapos po ito. Mr. President, we're willing to sit down. It’s not a ticking bomb anymore—it’s about to explode.”

Despite being part of the House majority, Dimaguila vowed to be relentless in pressing the issue. “Manggugulo ho tayo,” he said, expressing frustration over the lack of substantial response so far.

Environmental advocates and residents are closely watching whether the national government will act on Dimaguila’s call. With millions dependent on Laguna Lake for food, livelihood, and flood protection, experts agree that time is quickly running out.

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