Persistent rains have caused water levels in fishponds in Calasiao, Pangasinan to rise rapidly, posing challenges to local fish growers as some fish escape from their enclosures.

In Barangay Banaoang, Calasiao, Pangasinan, the water in fishponds was close to overflowing due to continuous rainfall. 

According to local fish growers, the water level has risen by more than a meter since July 24, leading to fish escaping from the ponds.

“‘Yung mga bangus namin nakakawala, kasi aagos sila, sasabay sa agos kapag tumaas,” Manny De Leon, a fish grower, said.

To prevent further losses, nets have been installed around the fishponds. 

Aida Miranda’s family, who manages a fishpond with 50,000 pieces of bangus and prawns, has also taken measures to manage the situation. 

”Lalabas ang bangus kapag baha... sayang kukunti ang matitira… may mga nakalabas na ba? mayroon na,” Miranda said.

As of 10 a.m. on July 25, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) reported that the Marusay River's water level has risen to 3.2 feet, still far from the critical level of 7 feet. 

However, residents in low-lying areas are advised to prepare for potential flooding as water levels are expected to rise further.

“Tuloy-tuloy ang pag-ulan sa Benguet… may posibilidad na ‘yung excess water doon ay bababa pa rin dito sa atin,” Kristine Joy Soriano, spokesperson for the Calasiao DRRM Office, said.