The country's largest freshwater lake, Laguna de Bay, should be restored as a major fish supply for those living in Metro Manila and the surrounding provinces, Agriculture Secretary Francisco “Kiko” Tiu Laurel Jr. said on Thursday, Jan. 18.
Laurel issued the statement as the Department of Agriculture (DA) seeks to lower the prices of agricultural products by maximizing the aquaculture potential of the 940-square-kilometer Laguna Lake.
“Our aim is to produce more food at lower prices. For example, bring back bangus prices to P50-P70 per kilo,” he said in a statement released on Thursday, Jan. 13.
“Maximizing the aquaculture potential of Laguna Lake is essential to achieving that goal. If we can add more capacity, then let’s do it.”
Per the data of the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), the Laguna de Bay produces approximately 90,000 tons of fresh water fish a year and provides livelihood to around 13,000 fisherfolk.
Recently, Aquaculture associations in the region have asked for the Department of Agriculture's support to address concerns such as rising fingerling mortality, insufficient saltwater introduction crucial for bangus production, and the lapse in the reintroduction of fresh water.
Fishpen operators groups argue that the last influx of saltwater into the lake occurred in 2022, emphasizing the non-occurrence of the annual opening of flood gates for fresh water.
With this, Laurel said would meet with the LLDA, chaired by Environment Secretary Ma. Antonia “Toni” Yulo-Loyzaga, to discuss Laguna Lake's future, including flood gate guidelines pivotal for aquaculture.
The DA chief has directed the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to conduct quarterly water quality tests and a capacity study of Laguna Lake.