The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has stood by the recent decision of the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) to adjust the allocation of resources in Laguna de Bay, citing recommendations from local government units (LGUs) and directives from President Marcos.
According to documents, the reduction in the share of fishermen from 60 percent to 53 percent in the 9,200-hectare Laguna de Bay was made in response to recommendations from LGUs.
This adjustment aimed to address challenges faced by small fisherfolk in meeting the required fish supply.
The decision to modify the sharing agreement was reportedly influenced by discussions held during a meeting with the Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC), where President Marcos approved an increase in the area designated for aquaculture operations.
The allocated area for aquaculture was raised from 25 hectares to 50 hectares to support commercial operators.
DENR emphasized that these adjustments were made to ensure sustainable resource management and address the needs of all stakeholders involved in the utilization of Laguna de Bay.
“The President’s directive increasing the 25 hectares to 50 hectares is basically the reallocation and resumption of operations of the previously reduced fishmen area by old or existing fishmen permit holders,” the agency said.
Originally, the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) board had established a 60-40 percent sharing arrangement for the 9,200-hectare allocation designated for aquaculture operations in Laguna de Bay.
In Board Resolution No. 2024-656, LLDA disclosed the outcome of its first regular meeting on Jan. 24, amending BR 540 issued in 2018.
Consequently, the area allocated for small fisherfolk has decreased to 4,876 hectares from the previous 5,520 hectares, while private operators now possess 4,324 hectares, up from 3,680 hectares.
The agency also highlighted the significance of aquaculture operations in Laguna de Bay, underscoring its contribution to fish production, income generation, employment opportunities, and revenue generation.
“The total fisheries production of Laguna de Bay from both capture fisheries and aquaculture used to supply more than two-thirds of the freshwater requirement of Metro Manila and adjoining provinces,” DENR said.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #DENR #LagunadeBay #LLDA