DAVAO CITY – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 12 has issued a warning to residents along the coast of Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS) to remain vigilant after a saltwater crocodile was spotted near Juanico Village Extension, Brgy. Lun Padidu, Malapatan, on Wednesday, September 11.
Shalimar A. Disomangcop, the provincial environment and natural resources officer (PENRO) of Sarangani, said that the crocodile was first seen by bantay dagat member Roberto Davalos, who promptly notified the DENR.
Drone footage captured by ecosystem management specialist Garry John Cabinta revealed that the crocodile measured approximately 3-4 meters in length and appeared to be sunbathing.
“This could potentially be the same crocodile recently sighted in Minanga, Buayan, General Santos City, as both sightings occurred just days apart,” PENRO Disomangcop noted.
Officials are currently assessing whether the area serves as a natural habitat for the reptile or if it is there for breeding purposes. “Understanding the crocodile’s presence is crucial due to their territorial nature and the potential risks they pose to human safety,” he added.
Cirilo A. Lagnason, Jr., SBPS protected area superintendent (PASu), said that they are consulting with experts to formulate appropriate responses to the crocodile’s presence in the protected seascape.
“We urge the public to stay alert and avoid any encounters with the crocodile, especially for those living near the mangrove areas of Minanga, Buayan, and Lun Padidu,” he advised.
According to the Animal Diversity Web, saltwater crocodiles are known for their aggressiveness and can view humans as potential prey. Encounters with these reptiles can be extremely dangerous, with a low chance of survival in the event of an attack. The breeding season for saltwater crocodiles occurs during the wet season, typically from September to October, when females lay eggs between November and March.
