Cari amici, oggi vi parlo del lago Tadlac. Dalla forma quasi perfettamente rotonda, si trova nella provincia di Los Banos in Laguna. E’ un lago all’interno di un lago o meglio è un lago vulcanico ed è una delle principali prese d’aria del Monte Makiling. La gente lo chiama il “lago incantato” per le sue acque inesplorate e per le tante leggende che lo riguardano. E’ anche conosciuto come il “lago degli alligatori” a ricordo della popolazione caimana un tempo numerosa.
Tadlac lake, also called Alligator Lake, is a crater lake located in Barangay Tadlac, Los Baños, Laguna. It is the only crater lake nested at the foot of the famous Mount Makiling. It is separated by a 50meter strip from Laguna de Bay, the biggest lake in the Philippines.
Tadlac lake is one of the smaller lakes in Laguna with just a surface area of 248,000 sqm. And a mean depth of 27 meter. Swimming its waters is not allowed because of sudden drops from its shores. The Spaniards originally called it Laguna de los Caimanes or Alligator Lake as a great number of crocodilians used to thrive in its waters during that time. Like other fabled lakes of Laguna, Tadlac Lake has its share of mystery and legend. Some locals share stories about a lady deity who lived in the lake and took human life as she pleases.
Historically, the lake is known to be a life giver especially to the local fishermen who have relied on its riches for the longest time. However, in the late 90s, heavy aquaculture has resulted in massive killing of fish, that taking away precious livelihood from local fishermen and businessmen. Through the Laguna Lake Development Authority and the cooperation of the community, the lake has recovered back to its old pristine self.
Occasionally, a handful of local fishermen will fish carp, tilapia, and bangus (milkfish) that have flourished in the waters after the government’s lake seeding program.
Surpassing beasts, myths and human misdeeds, the lake today is a sight of calm and beauty. For the residents living around it stunning views enhanced by the everyday cycle of sunrise and sunset.
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