Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 2 intensifies ‘Ludong’ conservation campaign in Cagayan Valley. (Photos courtesy of BFAR)
TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) – The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 2 is stepping up its conservation efforts to protect the endangered “Ludong” fish species, a vital part of Northern Luzon’s freshwater ecosystem.
Known as the “President’s Fish,” the Ludong, a freshwater Lobed River Mullet, is found only in the Cagayan River and its tributaries, spanning the Cagayan Valley and the Santa-Abra River Systems in Ilocos Sur and Abra provinces. Its unique habitat and declining population have made it a priority for conservation.
In line with BFAR Administrative Circular No. 247, which aims to protect this rare species, the agency has launched a multi-pronged approach to Ludong conservation. The initiative includes a public awareness campaign, enhanced law enforcement, and community engagement.
Campaign to raise awareness
The BFAR has launched an Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign to raise awareness about the importance of Ludong conservation. This effort is part of implementing the Ludong Closed Season, which runs from October 1 to November 15, 2024, during which catching, purchasing, selling, transporting, or possessing Ludong is strictly prohibited.
“This closed season is crucial for the Ludong to spawn and replenish its population,” said Regional Director Angel B. Encarnacion. “We need to ensure the survival of this species for future generations.”
To strengthen enforcement efforts, the BFAR has conducted Deputy Fish Warden Training sessions in Tumauini, Isabela, and Cabarroguis, Quirino. These sessions provided local fish wardens with vital information about the closed season and empowered them to enforce regulations while educating local communities, particularly fisherfolk, about the importance of protecting Ludong.
BFAR’s law enforcement team has also been conducting waterborne patrols along the Cagayan River, focusing on key areas such as Aparri, Camalaniugan, Lal-lo, and Gattaran. The team distributes informational pamphlets and engages with local fisherfolk, emphasizing the significance of adhering to the closed season and supporting Ludong conservation efforts.
Penalties for Violations
Violators of the BFAR Administrative Circular No. 247 face severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines. Anyone caught catching Ludong during the closed season faces six months and one day to six years imprisonment and/or a P6,000 fine, with the additional forfeiture of their catch and fishing equipment.
Harvesting and spawning Ludong carries harsher penalties, including imprisonment of six months and one day to eight years, a fine of P80,000, and revocation of fishing permits. Moreover, those found exporting spawning ‘Ludong’ could face eight years of imprisonment, a fine equivalent to double the fish’s value, and revocation of their fishing license and export permit.
To ensure compliance, the BFAR is working closely with local government units and community stakeholders, continuing to expand its IEC campaign over the coming weeks. The agency believes that community involvement is crucial to the success of Ludong conservation efforts (OTB/ MFJ/PIA Region 2).
