DA chief Laurel eyes revival of Laguna Lake as major fish source

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the Philippines’ largest freshwater lake, Laguna de Bay, should be revived as a major source of fish for residents of Metro Manila and nearby provinces.

“Our aim is to produce more food at lower prices. For example, bring back bangus prices to P50–P70 per kilo. Maximizing the aquaculture potential of Laguna Lake is essential to achieving that goal. If we can add more capacity, then let’s do it,” Laurel said in a statement.

Citing data from the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), the DA chief said the 940-square-kilometer Laguna de Bay produces as much as 90,000 tons of freshwater fish a year and provides livelihood to around 13,000 fishermen. 

The LLDA board consists of the secretaries of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Trade and Industry, and economic planning departments, as well as representatives from the Office of the President and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

Among the concerns of aquaculture groups in Laguna Lake are the increasing mortality of fingerlings in fishpens, the minimal introduction of salt water that is helpful in bangus production, and the reintroduction of freshwater. 

Stakeholders in the lake have sought the help of the DA.

Fishpen operator groups claim the last time salt water was allowed to flow into the lake was in 2022, according to the DA, adding that the groups also say that the annual opening of the flood gates is not happening.

Laurel said he would arrange a meeting with the LLDA to discuss plans and programs for Laguna Lake, along with the guidelines for the opening of the flood gates that are crucial for the introduction of fresh and salt water needed for a more productive aquaculture industry.

He also ordered the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to test the water quality of the lake every quarter as well as undertake a study on the capacity of Laguna Lake.

In 1999, the LLDA implemented a zoning and management plan that allowed 10,000 hectares of Laguna Lake for fishpen operations, 5,000 hectares for fish cages, as well as areas for fish sanctuary, navigational lanes, and open fishing. 

Pollution continues to threaten the lake as a viable source of fish.

Commercially important fish found or grown in Laguna Lake include white goby, mudfish, ayungin, bangus, catfish, kanduli, tilapia, and the common carp. — VBL, GMA Integrated News