Duterte to concerned gov’t agencies: Mitigate impact of Taal Lake fish kill

MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered concerned government agencies to undertake mitigating measures to cushion the effects of the fish kill in Taal Lake, Malacañang said Monday.

“The President has expressed concern about the fish kill in Taal, which according to fisheries experts is caused by sulfur upswelling triggered by the strong amihan that accompanies an extreme temperature drop,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

At least 150 tons or P12.3 million worth of cultured tilapia have so far died.

READ: Fish kill hits 150 tons of tilapia in Taal Lake
 

Panelo said Duterte “has directed the appropriate government offices to closely monitor the situation, particularly the water quality in Taal Lake.”

“He also required the officials concerned to undertake measures to mitigate the impact of the natural phenomenon,” he said.

“He ordered increased vigilance over the prices and supplies, as well as the freshness of fish sold in the market,” he added.

Malacañang cautioned the public “to refrain from spreading false news on the matter which may only cause undue alarm.” (Editor: Gilbert S. Gaviola)