Recently, the country’s largest lake Laguna de Bay opened out in news broadcasts and newspapers because of the reported algal bloom, a high-speed increase in algae density in the 2.8-meter deep lagoon. Algal blooms are natural phenomena, but their frequency, duration and intensity are increased by nutrient pollution. Good thing the Muntinlupa City Health Office was quick on the draw and assured lakeshore residents the algal bloom in the 900-square-km Laguna de Bay does not pose a threat to public health.

Laguna de Bay’s algal bloom. (2023, May 23). Manila Standard, p. B1.