When I saw the news some time ago about Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto initiating actions for the removal of the unused fish pens in Taal Lake. She makes complete sense in this action, because she was not only thinking of the rehabilitation of the lake itself, but of the livelihood of the people as well. This is in contrast with DENR Head Atienza who wants to dismantle all the fishpens in one sweep. Where will that leave the people who are dependent on the lake? It's just making one problem while trying to solve another.

She revealed in the TV interview that the movement in the local and national environmental agencies were slow to take action and so she initiated the movement. But she will only have the unused fishpens dismantled at this initial stage, and is likewise in active participation with local groups to find alternative sources of livelihood for the people.

And although the Tawilis, a freshwater sardine found only in Taal Lake and is one of only 2 species of its kind worldwide, was not mentioned, they might not know it but this will help the fish thrive in the lake. The Tawilis is currently a threatened species due to overfishing and setting up of fish farms in the lake, competing with the finite food supply of the Tawilis.

I salute you, Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto, for your environmental actions!

Related link: "Vilma Santos seeks other livelihood for fish cage operators" at inquirer.net