In the Philippines, lakes are among the most important natural resources because of its agricultural and industrial uses (Guerrero 1999). At present, there are eight lakes identified in Leyte. The largest of these lacustrine waters is Lake Danao in Ormoc City (146 ha).
Lake Danao is one of the top ecotourism destinations in Leyte and the entire Region VIII. Cognizant of the importance of the lake to the locals who are dependent on this resource, indeed, it is necessary that the water quality of Lake Danao should be maintained and protected  against harmful anthropogenic activities. Poor water quality can result in low profit, low product quality, and potential human health risks. Thus, the degradation of water resources due to man-made activities necessitates the evaluation and monitoring of water quality (PHILMINAQ 2008). This project entitled LaWaQ: Lake Water Quality Evaluation and Monitoring using Physico-Chemical and Biological Characterization therefore aims to provide an update information on the status of the water quality in Lake Danao. Levels of nutrients, heavy metals, total coliform and other physico-chemical parameters in water and sediment samples will be measured in assessing the water quality of the lake. This information can be used by local authorities and legislators in formulating and developing regulatory measures that will ensure the maintenance, protection, and responsible use of the  Lake waters.