Author : Baldoza, Bernajocele Jalyn S.; Montojo, Ulysses M.; Perelonia, Karl Bryan; Benitez, Kathlene Cleah D.; Cambia, Flordeliza D.; Garcia, Lilian C.

Summary : Fishponds around Manila Bay contributed an average of 41.19% of the total aquaculture production in the country. However, massive productions entail the intensification of ponds, which resulted in water quality deterioration. In 2016, Opinion et al. reported water quality in the aquaculture farms around the bay but does not include the other significant parameters required to be monitored, as stated in the DENR AO (2016). Thus, this study investigated the status of water quality in different pond systems surrounding Manila Bay. Extensive, semi-intensive, and intensive fishponds from adjoining provinces of Cavite, Pampanga, Bataan, and Bulacan were monitored throughout the rearing period. Results showed that levels of NH3-N (0.90 mg/L – 2.35 mg/L) and PO4-3 (1.02 mg/L – 2.42 mg/L) were not suitable for the culture of fish. Nevertheless, NO3-N, NO2-N BOD, TSS, DO, pH, and temperature were within the safe levels. Furthermore, results suggested that there should be a regular monitoring of water quality to regulate and manage fishponds surrounding the bay. Finally, strict compliance of the Code of Good Aquaculture Practices (GAqP) must be imposed to achieve water quality standards.