SAN SIMON, Pampanga — At least 30,000 indigenous fish species were released along the Pampanga River in the portion of this town as part of the Balik Sigla sa Ilog at Lawa program of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Central Luzon.

Fish species such as ayungin, martiniko, common carp and ulang were sourced from the National Inland Fisheries Technology Center of BFAR in Tanay, Rizal and were dispersed to repopulate the river and increase its productivity.

Over fishing and the use of illegal anddestructive fishing methods have virtually decimated the indigenous fish species in major lakes and rivers.

“This move will help strengthen the local indigenous fish population. The project will also involve thecommunities surrounding the river and make them aware of the importance of sustainable and environment friendly fishing practices,” said BFAR regional director Wilfredo Cruz.