BAROY, LANAO DEL NORTE — Alarm has gripped residents in Raw-an Point, Baroy, Lanao del Norte after a large number of dead fish were discovered floating and washing ashore along the coastline, raising fears of a possible environmental crisis affecting the waters of Panguil Bay.
Residents first noticed the unusual sight as dead fish began drifting toward the shoreline, prompting concern among local fisherfolk and coastal communities who rely heavily on the sea for food and livelihood. Despite warnings and uncertainty over the cause of the incident, some residents were reportedly seen collecting the dead fish.
Local authorities and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) have begun investigating the incident to determine the exact cause of the fish kill and assess the extent of damage suffered by fish cage operators and local fisherfolk.
So far, officials have yet to confirm what triggered the sudden die-off, but environmental experts and fisheries observers have pointed to several possible causes.
One of the primary suspected causes is a toxic red tide or harmful algal bloom (HAB). Sudden weather changes, intense heat, and heavy rainfall can trigger the rapid multiplication of microscopic algae in seawater. These blooms can discolor the water, often turning it reddish or brown. As the algae die and decompose, they consume large amounts of dissolved oxygen—leaving fish unable to breathe and causing mass suffocation. Some algae also release toxins that can directly damage fish gills.
According to past records from BFAR, coastal areas in Lanao del Norte, including Baroy and Lala, have previously tested positive for Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) associated with red tide events.
Another possible cause being considered is oxygen depletion caused by overcrowding in fish cages or a phenomenon known as “upwelling.” In fish cage operations, excessive stocking can rapidly consume available oxygen. Additionally, decomposing fish waste and leftover feeds can accumulate on the seabed. When strong winds, rain, or sudden shifts in water temperature disturb the water layers, these decaying materials can rise to the surface, creating foamy or oily patches while further reducing oxygen levels.
Authorities are also investigating the possibility of chemical contamination or pollution from land-based sources, such as agricultural runoff, industrial waste, or fuel leaks from boats, which may have compromised water quality and contributed to the fish deaths.
The incident has sparked growing concern online, with one netizen asking:
“Is it still safe to eat seafood these days here in Lanao? I hope the proper agencies issue an advisory regarding the situation in Panguil Bay. Marine life deaths are becoming alarming.”
BFAR has yet to release an official advisory, but authorities are strongly urging the public not to catch, consume, or sell any fish found dead during the incident.
Health experts warn that consuming fish affected by fish kill events or red tide contamination may pose serious health risks, including food poisoning, stomach illnesses, and exposure to potentially dangerous marine toxins.
The fish kill could also result in significant economic losses for local fish cage owners and fisherfolk, many of whom depend entirely on daily fishing and aquaculture for income.
Residents are now awaiting BFAR’s official findings and recommendations as concerns continue to mount over the health of Panguil Bay’s marine ecosystem and the safety of seafood in affected coastal communities.