From vendor to consumer: Evaluating the microbial quality of generic bottled water in Rizal Province, Philippines

In Rizal Province, Philippines, generic bottled water is widely distributed through street vendors and small retail outlets and is often presumed by consumers to be safe. However, potential microbial contamination poses public health risks, particularly in areas lacking stringent quality controls. Therefore, this study assessed the microbial and physicochemical quality of these bottled waters and their compliance with national and international safety standards.