16-foot whale shark found dead along Misamis Oriental coast

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (August 31)  — A 16-foot whale shark, locally known as “taluki,” was found dead and stranded along the shallow portion of a beach in Purok 1, Barangay Bolisong, Kinoguitan, Misamis Oriental on Saturday.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Northern Mindanao (DENR-10) said concerned residents initially reported the sighting of the stranded marine wildlife, prompting authorities to respond.

The DENR-10, through the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Gingoog City, coordinated with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the local government of Kinoguitan to inspect and assess the whale shark.

Initial inspection confirmed that the animal was already dead. Authorities also observed an approximately seven-inch-deep wound near its head.

The exact cause of death, however, has yet to be established and remains subject to further assessment and verification.

The DENR coordinated with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), which has jurisdiction over fisheries and aquatic resources, for further examination of the carcass.

Following the assessment, BFAR advised that the whale shark be buried immediately to prevent further decomposition, particularly because the carcass was found in the shallow portion of the beach where it could pose sanitation and environmental concerns.

The concerned agencies and the Kinoguitan local government are expected to facilitate the proper burial and disposal of the carcass in accordance with applicable protocols.

The incident also underscores the need for coastal communities to promptly report stranded, injured or distressed marine wildlife to authorities, the DENR said.

Early reporting allows government agencies to assess the animal, determine possible causes of injury or death, and ensure that appropriate wildlife response protocols are followed.

The DENR and its partner agencies also stressed the importance of cooperation among government agencies, local governments and coastal communities in protecting marine wildlife and safeguarding the country’s coastal and marine ecosystems.