Duterte to government agencies: Cushion effects of fish kill

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte has ordered concerned government agencies to undertake measures that would mitigate the impact of a fish kill that hit Taal Lake in Batangas.

More than 600 tons of tilapia worth P42.9 million were lost due to the fish kill, which was caused by sulfur upswelling triggered by the amihan or northeast monsoon and extreme drop in temperature.

The fish kill affected about 121 fish cages in two towns, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said Duterte directed appropriate government offices to closely monitor the situation, particularly the water quality in the lake.

Panelo said the President also ordered “increased vigilance” on the prices and supplies, as well as the freshness of fish sold in the market.

He urged the public to refrain from spreading false news that might cause alarm among the residents.