Ludong: The Most Expensive Fish in the Philippines

Ludong or Banak, also known as Lobed River Mullet or Pacific Salmon (scientifically named Cestraeus plicatilis)  is categorized as one of the endangered fish species in the Philippines. This freshwater mullet can be found in Cagayan River and Santa-Abra River System of Ilocos Sur and Abra. Due to its rapid extinction, the price of Ludong fish is P5000 per kilogram, thus, making Ludong as the most expensive fish in the Philippines.

This freshwater mullet is also known as "The President's Fish" because it has been the favorite fish of the late Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos during his term, since it has a unique taste and aroma. Boxes of Ludong are said to be transported directly to Malacanang via the C - 130 cargo plane of the PAF. Because of the extraordinary taste of its meat, Ludong has been the the top choice by the elite society, as well as politicians and celebrities.

Ludong is actually a catadromous fish, which means that it thrives in freshwater but migrates to seawater during October to November or the spawning season. The extinction of this specie is mainly due to uncontrolled fishing practices and the pollution of the river. That is why, a 3-month ban to catch, purchase, sell, transport or export of Ludong is imposed during spawning season. 

According to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Order No.31, violators will face a jail term of 6 months to 8 years and a fine of P6,000 to P80,000. 

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