An Assessment of Development of a Transboundary Small Lake: Calibato Lake, San Pablo City and Rizal, Laguna, The Philippines

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Brillo, Bing Baltazar C.

Affiliations: Institute for Governance and Rural Development, College of Public Affairs and Development University of the Philippines, Los Baños, bbbrillo@yahoo.com

Abstract: Commencing on the scarcity of development studies on lakes (as the field is dominated by limnology and aquaculture studies) and small-lake studies (as the field is heavily concentrated on big-lake studies), this study assesses the underdevelopment of Calibato Lake, a small transboundary lake. The article reveals the lack of development initiatives in the lake as well as definitive time table from its administrative agencies on when they will be carried out. It argues that the LLDA, the City Government of San Pablo and the Local Government of Rizal must now take action to instigate and bring development in the lake. Particularly, by initiating the crafting of a zoning-development plan which is crucial for managing the water resource, regulating aquaculture, and facilitating subsequent actions; by promoting ecotourism which is essential in extending work opportunities and community development; and by protecting the many natural springs and their watershed which is critical in the preservation of the lake and its environment.

Keywords: Development, Philippine lake, small lake, transboundary lake, Calibato lake (or Kalibato lake)

DOI: 10.3233/AJW-160017

Journal: Asian Journal of Water, Environment and Pollution, vol. 13, no. 2, pp. 55-67, 2016