Philippines: The Department of Agriculture chief Francisco Laurel eyes the 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). ...