SLSU Faculty’s Comprehensive Study Guides Lake Palakpakin’s Sustainable Future

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU) commended the newly published paper coming from its faculty: "Towards Integrated Management of a Shallow Tropical Lake: Assessment of Water Quality, Sediment Geochemistry, and Phytoplankton Diversity in Lake Palakpakin, Philippines." Dr. Ian A. Navarrete's study and his esteemed team have advanced knowledge about the health condition of Lake Palakpakin while leaving a spotlight on the current pressing environmental problems that surround this highly unusual shallow tropical lake.

Lake Palakpakin, situated in San Pablo City, Laguna, is an important freshwater source with rich biodiversity, significantly contributing to the livelihood of local communities. However, urbanization has initiated alteration to the ecological balance in the lake which intensified nutrient inputs and facilitated the growth of excessive alga, a condition commonly referred to as eutrophication. Samples of water and sediment collected during both the wet and dry seasons from critical sites revealed with proper testing alarming changes in the ecosystem of Lake Palakpakin, such as increased levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. Large proportions of phytoplankton species Microcystis aeruginosa were also found, which reflects degraded water quality and ecological status.

The researchers embarked on integrated management through community awareness, regulatory measures, and sustainable practices. This path-breaking study highlights the commitment of SLSU to impact-oriented research as it pushes for science-based strategies in the restoration and conservation of strategic water resources like Lake Palakpakin.

How to cite: Navarrete, I. A., Dicen, G. P., Perez, T. R., Mendoza, S. M., Rallos, R. V., Labides, J. L. R., Rivera, C. T., Hallare, A. V., & Claveria, R. J. R. (2019). Towards integrated management of a shallow tropical lake: Assessment of water quality, sediment geochemistry, and phytoplankton diversity in Lake Palakpakin, Philippines. Springer Nature. To read full content:
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10661-019-7617-7