Manila, Philippines - Residents of Barangay 900 at Punta Sta. Ana caught on Sunday, January 27, 2019, several huge freshwater tilapias - many of them weighing more than a kilo each.
The fisherfolk and kids on the area could not hide their smiles and excitement after catching and seeing such big fishes already thriving in the rehabilitated and award-winning Pasig River.
In the 2009 study "Biodiversity Assessment of Pasig River and its Tributaries: Ecosystems Approach" by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) - Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB), eight (8) species of fish, including tilapias, already live in the historic river.
The Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission - PRRC on the other hand, reminds everyone that though this is proof of the river's significant improvement, these fishes may contain traces of toxic chemicals that may cause harm to one's health. Thus, utmost precaution is advised.
Photo credits to PRRC Community Organizer Jesusa Hiponia. — Via Pasig River Rehabilitation Commission.