The Protected Area Resource Management and Protection Unit (PARMPU) of the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS) conducted a manual Crown-of-Thorns (COTs) starfish collection and net retrieval operation in Kawas Strict Protection Zone (SPZ), Alabel, Sarangani Province, on 24 October 2025.

The collection of these COTs followed regular reef monitoring to prevent potential infestation and signs of coral bleaching.

According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Soccsksargen, a total of 54 Crown-of-Thorns starfish were manually collected during the operation to prevent further coral degradation.

The team also retrieved about six kilograms of fine mesh nets entangled in coral formations, which pose hazards to marine life and impede reef recovery.

The DENR said these interventions are part of SBPS’s ongoing regular monitoring of strict protection zones aimed at maintaining reef health and ecological balance.

The monitoring was led by the PARMPU team together with DENR Region XII Assistant Regional Director for Management Services Maria Elvira V. Lumayag and Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer (CENRO) Joy C. Ologuin of CENRO Glan, following reports of coral bleaching in portions of the reef.

Upon inspection, a significant number of COT starfish, which are known coral predators, were found in the area.

As part of proactive measures, the Protected Area Management Office of the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (PAMO-SBPS) is currently mapping potential areas of Crown-of-Thorns infestation across Sarangani Bay.

The office urges the public, divers, and fisherfolk to immediately report any sightings of Crown-of-Thorns starfish or coral bleaching to local authorities or PAMO-SBPS for proper response and containment.

The collection or handling of this species by untrained individuals is strongly discouraged, as improper methods may damage corals and cause stress leading to spawning, which could worsen the infestation.