KALAMANSIG, SULTAN KUDARAT (October 26) — Something special is swimming just off our shores!
In a major win for local conservation, marine monitoring teams spotted six gentle dugongs and five green sea turtles feeding along the Poral coastline—covering Barangays Santa Maria and Cadiz—on October 21,2026.
Captured via aerial drone by the DENR Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Kalamansig, the sight of these majestic creatures foraging together in the shallows points to a thriving coastal ecosystem.
From One to Six: A Coastal Comeback
The drone footage reveals an extraordinary jump in local wildlife activity. Just last semester, researchers logged only a single dugong in the area. Jumping to six dugongs in a single visit proves that Kalamansig’s coastal waters are becoming a vital safe haven and feeding ground for endangered marine life.
“This dramatic surge in sightings underscores just how critical our waters are to marine biodiversity,”highlighted CENRO Kalamansig, noting that the data gathered will help shape stronger local conservation plans.
Protect Our Ocean Neighbors: What You Need to Know
With more dugongs and sea turtles visiting our backyard, local authorities are asking community members and fisherfolk to help keep these gentle giants safe.
§ It’s the Law: Both dugongs (dugong) and green sea turtles (pawikan) are strictly protected under Republic Act 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act).
§ Zero Tolerance: Harming, hunting, capturing, keeping, or trading these animals carries severe legal penalties.
§ Be a Guardian: Keep coastal waters free of plastic waste and navigate boats carefully near shallow feeding areas.
How You Can Help
Keeping our waters safe is a community effort! If you spot marine wildlife, witness a stranding, or see illegal fishing or hunting activities:
§ Report immediately to your local Barangay officials or CENRO Kalamansig.
§ Keep a respectful distance—never crowd, touch, or feed wild marine animals.
§ Spread the word to friends and neighbors to keep our shores clean and welcoming.
Together, we can ensure Kalamansig remains a safe home for these incredible ocean creatures for generations to come.
