CALAMBA CITY—Senator Imee Marcos underscored the importance of protecting and enriching the biodiversity of Laguna de Bay amid the dwindling fish population due to overfishing practices.
In her address during the 15th commencement exercises of the City College of Calamba, Marcos urged the public to learn from the example set by those who care for the lake and regulate fishing activities.
“Laguna de Bay serves as a crucial ecosystem that needs our protection. We must work together to ensure the sustainability of our fish population and the overall health of the lake,” she said.
The senator served as the guest commencement speaker alongside Calamba City Mayor Ross Rizal.
Marcos highlighted the collaborative efforts of the Provincial Government, Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), and Department of Agriculture (DA) in supporting local fishermen, emphasizing the importance of responsible fishing practices and sustainable management of resources.
She stressed the significance of community involvement in environmental stewardship.
Earlier, the senator stood firm against the proliferation of illegal quarrying in Laguna.
Marcos noted that while the quarrying industry is a huge contributor to the country’s infrastructure development program, environmental concerns brought about by unchecked quarrying operations should not be overlooked.
Quarrying activities in the province include excavating building materials such as gravel and sand, known as aggregates.
Marcos said that while the quarrying industry remains a vital component of the economy, regulations must be strictly enforced, said Marcos.
She said the provincial government and LGUs should impose strict regulations on the use of barangay, municipal, and provincial roads by trucks carrying quarried products.