Saving San Pablo’s Seven Lakes

Government agencies responsible for the country’s aquatic resources are the BFAR, LLDA, and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Philippine Council for Aquatic and Marine Research and Development (PCAMRD). These agencies coordinate with the LGU and FARMC to help establish productivity-enhancing economic programs in the coastal fishing community; for instance, the mass culture of Macrobrachium or ulang, a freshwater shrimp, has been introduced as an alternative to the aquaculture of tilapia. They monitor the water quality of the lakes, and develop databases and appropriate technologies. Academic institutions such as the UPLB and the Department of Environmental Science of Ateneo de Manila University institute research initiatives in close coordination with the LGU and other stakeholders.

Thus, with the leadership of the fisherfolk community — guided by FAMRC and with support from the local government — fisherfolk organizations, NGOs, and academic groups can bond together for a common cause: to restore the water quality of the lakes and enhance the sustainability of this important resource. The seven lakes carve out the uniqueness of San Pablo City, influencing its traditions and culture. The demand on the lakes as a significant resource for multiple uses has increased, and aquaculture of tilapia, in particular, can hasten the deterioration of the water quality of the lakes and threaten their sustainability if not properly managed. However, the steps undertaken by all the stakeholders in San Pablo City, their love for the seven lakes, and their commitment and cooperation, are positive indicators for the sustainability of the Seven Lakes.

Dr. Teresita R. Perez is a riparian ecologist and a limnologist. She is associate professor at the Department of Environmental Science, Ateneo de Manila University. The essays in this column are taken from the Agenda for Hope books, the Ateneo de Manila University Loyola Schools’ scholarly work contribution to national development on the occasion of the Ateneo’s sesquicentennial. More information on the books can be obtained at http://www.ateneopress.org and at 426-6001 local 5000-5006.

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