THE Department of Agriculture is looking at the to revive the Laguna de Bay – the Philippines’ largest freshwater lake –  as a possible new 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,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said.

Laurel said that based on the data from the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), the 940-square-kilometer Laguna de Bay can possibly produce some 90,000 tons of freshwater fish a year.

This will provide livelihood to some 13,000 fishermen. 

Currently, 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).

Part of their concerns about having aquaculture groups in Laguna Lake to increase the mortality of fingerlings in fishpens.

They said that the minimal introduction of salt water that is helpful in bangus production, and the reintroduction of freshwater.