Disinformation Threatens Taal Lake Fisherfolk's Livelihood Amid Ongoing Searches

TALISAY, Batangas – Disinformation is undermining the livelihoods of fisherfolk around Taal Lake, as false narratives about the contamination of fish stocks linked to the disappearance of cockfighting enthusiasts, known as sabungeros, circulate among the public. These narratives have emerged following government searches for the remains of missing individuals, affecting the sales and reputation of local aquaculture businesses.
On July 10, 2025, the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Coast Guard launched a search operation in Taal Lake in response to allegations surrounding the fates of over 30 missing sabungeros. This investigation has sparked widespread speculation, including baseless claims suggesting that fish in the lake may have consumed human remains. Such rumors have led to significant public fear and disrupted market dynamics, particularly in towns like Talisay, where aquaculture supports thousands of families.
Engineer Mario Balazon, spokesperson for the Taal Lake Aquaculture Alliance, emphasized the unfounded nature of these claims. He stated, "The fish cages are nowhere near the area where the government search is ongoing. Fish grown in Taal Lake are raised in controlled environments and are not scavengers that roam freely across the lake." Balazon clarified that the primary species cultivated include tilapia, bangus (milkfish), and tawilis (an endemic freshwater sardine), which rely on commercial feeds rather than scavenging.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has supported this assertion, declaring that fish from Taal Lake remain safe for consumption. According to BFAR, tawilis primarily feed on plankton, while tilapia and bangus are fed commercial diets, further negating the claims of contamination.
The disinformation campaign appears to stem from the investigation into the disappearance of the sabungeros, with whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan alleging police involvement in the cases. Patidongan has filed complaints against multiple officers, asserting they were paid to eliminate the missing individuals and dispose of their bodies in Taal Lake. This situation has led to increased search efforts but has also exacerbated the fears of local fisherfolk, who are already experiencing seasonal declines in sales due to market fluctuations.
Balazon remarked on the seasonal nature of fish prices, noting, "Price changes are expected this time of year because this is also the season of wild catch, leading to increased competition among sellers." He urged the public to critically evaluate the information they consume and share, cautioning against sensational reports that may further harm local livelihoods.
With over 9,000 fish cages in Taal Lake, the impact of misinformation poses a substantial threat to the local economy, which extends beyond mere fish sales. Fisherfolk fear that if these false narratives continue to proliferate, their livelihoods will suffer irreparably.
The Taal Lake community is calling for a return to factual reporting and public awareness about the realities of aquaculture in the region. Only through clarity and the dissemination of accurate information can the livelihoods of these fisherfolk be safeguarded from the tide of disinformation. As the investigation into the sabungeros' disappearance continues, the hope remains that truth will prevail, allowing the local economy to recover from the damage already inflicted by fear-driven narratives.
Advertisement
Tags
Advertisement