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Fisherfolks' livelihood hit by claims missing sabungeros were buried in Taal Lake
Sales of tawilis, a fish endemic to Taal Lake, have dropped due to rumors that missing "sabungeros" (cockfight watchers) were killed and their bodies disposed of in the lake.
Fish vendors at the Talisay market reported a significant decline in sales, with some noting that their usual daily sell-outs are no longer happening.
Laurel Mayor Lyndon Bruce confirmed that fish sales have slowed since the allegations surfaced, noting that people have become hesitant to buy fish.
He added that fishermen from nearby towns are also experiencing a negative impact on their income due to the controversy.
Mayor Bruce mentioned that if such incidents occurred, they would have happened around 2020 or 2021.
Vendors have assured the public that the tawilis sold are farm-raised and safe for consumption, but some customers remain wary.
Taal Lake is a primary producer of tilapia and bangus, supplying Metro Manila and the CALABARZON region.
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The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has declared that tawilis from Taal Lake are safe for human consumption.
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The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) stated that the remains of missing cockfight enthusiasts could still be retrieved from Taal Lake if their bodies were indeed disposed of there.
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