MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – The tranquil beauty of Lake Pinamaloy in Don Carlos, Bukidnon, was shattered this week when dozens of giant koi fish, some weighing 30 to 40 kilos, were discovered floating lifeless on its waters

The incident has alarmed residents, saddened visitors, and prompted an urgent scientific investigation.

On August 27, 2025, Mayor Ma. Victoria O. Pizarro announced that water and fish specimen samples had been sent to the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) and the Central Mindanao University (CMU) College of Veterinary Medicine. The samples will undergo a comprehensive analysis to determine the exact cause of the fish kill.

The Municipal Agriculture Office and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) have been closely monitoring the lake since the first sighting on August 26, when local workers retrieved the massive koi and loaded them onto vehicles for disposal. Videos of the incident quickly spread across social media, sparking speculation and worry.

Mayor Pizarro urged residents to remain calm and refrain from sharing unverified claims.

“Let’s work together to share accurate updates and protect our community’s well-being. Rest assured that this will be taken care of by the local government,” she said.

According to a report from Bukidnon Dispatch, authorities suspect that the fish kill may have been caused by low dissolved oxygen, elevated water temperatures, excessive algae growth, or toxic chemicals from sewage runoff. Still, these remain hypotheses pending official laboratory confirmation.

Lake Pinamaloy is more than just a body of water—it is the heart of Don Carlos. Stretching across 60 hectares, it serves as the town’s primary source of potable water while also drawing in tourists with its scenic charm. The death of its iconic koi—symbols of beauty, prosperity, and local pride—has sparked conversations on the urgent need for environmental protection and sustainable practices. (melbmadera)