CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — A Whale Shark (𝘙𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘥𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘺𝘱𝘶𝘴), locally known as “Taluki,” measuring approximately 16 feet in length, was found dead and stranded in the shallow portion of the beach at Purok 1, Barangay Bolisong, Kinoguitan, Misamis Oriental on Satiurday.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)  northern Mindanao is a report said  sighting of whale shark was initially reported by concerned citizens in the area, who immediately alerted authorities regarding the stranded marine wildlife.

Upon receiving the report, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region X (DENR X), through its Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Gingoog City, together with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Kinoguitan, Misamis Oriental, promptly proceeded to the area to inspect and assess the condition of the whale shark.

Initial inspection revealed that the whale shark was already deceased. An approximately seven-inch-deep wound near the head area was observed on the animal. The exact cause of death, however, remains subject to further assessment and verification by the concerned authorities.

The DENR iregional office  has  also coordinated with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to conduct an inspection and assessment of the whale shark, considering that the species falls under BFAR’s jurisdiction.

Following the assessment, BFAR advised that the whale shark be buried as soon as possible to prevent further decomposition of the carcass, which may pose sanitation and environmental concerns, particularly as it was found along the shallow portion of the beach. 

The concerned authorities and the LGU are expected to facilitate the proper burial and disposition of the whale shark in accordance with applicable protocols.

The DENR  together with its partner agencies and the LGU, continues to encourage the public to immediately report sightings of stranded, injured, or distressed marine wildlife to the nearest authorities. Prompt reporting and coordinated response are essential in ensuring the proper assessment, protection, and management of marine wildlife.

The incident likewise highlights the importance of continued cooperation among government agencies, local government units, and coastal communities in responding to marine wildlife incidents and safeguarding the country’s marine resources.