A devastating fish kill at Magat Dam in Isabela has resulted in the death of approximately 10 metric tons of tilapia, causing losses exceeding PHP 1 million for fish pen operators in the area.
Extent of the Damage
According to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)-Isabela, the fish kill affected fish pens in the towns of Ramon and Cordon. The estimated value of the lost tilapia is PHP 1.2 million. BFAR reported that the deaths were caused by a drop in water levels in the dam and a consequent lack of oxygen.
Response and Impact
BFAR began receiving reports of the fish kill on Monday and immediately advised operators to harvest their remaining fish to prevent further losses. However, some operators were unable to save their stocks in time. The Isabela Provincial Fishery Office has pledged assistance to affected operators, including the provision of free fingerlings to help them restart their operations.
