The Department of Agriculture (DA) is pushing for the revival of Laguna de Bay, the largest fresh water lake in the country’s role, 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 to P70 per kilogram. Maximizing the aquaculture potential of Laguna Lake is essential to achieving that goal. If we can add more capacity, then let’s do it,” DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said, during a meeting with fishpen operators in the area last week.
Citing data from the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), DA said the 940-square-kilometer Laguna de Bay produces as much as 90,000 tons of fresh water fish a year and provides livelihood to around 13,000 fishermen.
DA said aquaculture associations in Laguna Lake have sought the help of the agency to address concerns including increasing mortality of fingerlings in fish pens, minimal introduction of salt water to boost bangus production and the reintroduction of fresh water.
Fish pen operators groups said the last time salt water was allowed to flow into the lake was in 2022, adding the annual opening of the flood gates to allow fresh water is also not happening.
Laurel said he will meet with LLDA, now chaired by Environment Secretary Ma. Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, to discuss plans and programs for the lake.
Laurel said they will also discuss guidelines for the opening of the flood gates that is crucial for the introduction of fresh and salt water needed for a more productive aquaculture industry.
Laurel has ordered the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources for a quarterly testing of the lake’s water quality as well as to undertake a study on its capacity.
DA said 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.
However, the agency said pollution continues to threaten the lake as a viable source of fish.
Among commercially-important fish found or grown in Laguna Lake are white goby, mudfish, ayungin, bangus, catfish, kanduli, tilapia and common carp.
