Laguna de Bay, the Philippines' largest inland body of water, is an indispensable source of clean water for fishing, drinking, recreation, as well as an important habitat for endangered species. ; This tome on Laguna de Bay, brings the history, legend and lore together with visions for the future of this famous lake. ; Full illustrated with contributions from notable writers and researchers in the Philippines, this book can serve as a reference tool as well as a bridge across the widening distance between the Filipinos' historic past and the appreciation of future generations.

Includes bibliographical references (pages 148-154).

Acknowledgement. -- Preface. -- Introduction. -- Foreword. -- Historical perspective : our ancestors by the lake. -- Bae : the goddess of the lake : "bae" or "bai" : the lady of the lake. -- Colonial churches and towns : colonial churches of Rizal and Laguna : noble monuments of the past. -- Coastal towns of Laguna : the realm of spirits. -- Coastal towns of Rizal : Rizal and Laguna--lakeside sister provinces (coastal towns of Rizal and Metro Manila). -- Trade commerce and industry : Laguna de Bay : mantra for profit from a glorious past. -- Cuisine from around the shores, spectrum of life, artists and artisans : Laguna lake as artistic resource. -- Rizal's Laguna : Rizal's Laguna de Bay, Rizal and Mariang Makiling. -- Present efforts, visions of the future : helping hands : present efforts and visions, Laguna de Bay : a vision for the future, Unilever's commercial. -- 18 living lakes, the mission is clear : from Rio to Johannesburg, the road to living lakes, visions of Laguna de Bay. -- Selected bibliography. -- Around the lake in 8 hours : Laguna de Bay loop tour, brief geographical/historical description.