Vilma Santos leads boodle fight in Taal

MANILA, Philippines — Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos-Recto yesterday led a boodle fight near the shore of Taal Lake to show the public that fish caught in the area is safe for human consumption.

The activity, conducted in coordination with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)-Calabarzon and local fisherfolk, was intended to dispel public fears following reports that the bodies of missing cockfight enthusiasts or sabungeros were allegedly dumped in the lake.

By conducting the event, Santos-Recto and the BFAR said they wanted to protect the welfare of the local fisherfolk, who have seen decreasing fish sales.

“Fish caught in the lake are mostly cultured and non-carnivorous, making them safe for human consumption,” the governor said.

BFAR-Calabarzon director Sammy Malvas said the activity was intended to restore consumer confidence and support the fishing industry around the lake.

Aside from Santos-Recto, mayors of lakeside towns joined the activity.