Foreign scientists study San Pablo lakes

SAN PABLO CITY, Laguna, Philippines — Thirty-nine scientists from Chile, El Salvador, France, Indonesia, Italy and the United States conducted a study of Lakes Pandin and Mojicap here to guide government and environment groups in their preservation.

Raymond Maximo, a senior researcher of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, said the scientists, along with Filipino researchers, gathered water samples from the two lakes for scientific analysis.

Maximo said the study aims to understand the Pandin and Mojicap lakes’ physical and chemical properties.

The two lakes have become the focus of global scientific attention, especially during the 12th International Workshop on Volcanic Lakes earlier this month here.

Formed through volcanic activity, San Pablo’s lakes serve as vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, tourism and livelihood of local communities.

Rebecca Biagi, of the University of Florence in Italy, said the results of their studies would help local communities to better understand the condition of the lakes and the importance of preserving them.

“As scientists continue to analyze their collected samples, their findings are expected to provide valuable insights that will help protect San Pablo’s volcanic lakes for future generations,” San Pablo Mayor Arcadio Gapangada said.