Lake Use: Accounts From Lake Communities

The results of the FGDs offer insights into the historical uses of the lake to the local communities. However, it should be noted that the accounts shared by the participants were based on what they remembered. 

Across the seven lake communities, the lakes have been used mainly for fishing. The locals also shared that at least three lakes were their drinking water source. The research participants reported that Yambo Lake still provided them with drinking water. However, locals and visitors should take necessary precautions when using lake water for domestic purposes, especially for drinking.

 It must be noted that the seven lakes are classified by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) as Class C water bodies according to the DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2016-08 wherein their beneficial uses are restricted to fisheries, non-contact activities, and industry manufacturing as per DAO 34.