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Stranded whale shark dies in Batangas despite rescue efforts

Philippines | National

Stranded whale shark dies in Batangas despite rescue efforts

By Martin Sadongdong

(Photo: PCG)

A whale shark (butanding) died after being stranded in shallow waters in Balayan, Batangas despite rescue efforts mounted by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and local officials on Sunday, May 25.

A report from the Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog said a concerned citizen alerted authorities about the presence of the stranded whale shark off the shoreline of Barangay 10 around midnight.

The marine creature measured approximately 13.8 feet in length and 2.95 feet in width.

“Early assessments revealed signs of extreme exhaustion, raising concerns for the well-being of the whale shark,” the Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog said.

Joint teams from the PCG, Balayan municipal disaster risk reduction and management office (MDRRMO), and Balayan municipal fisheries office made several attempts to guide the whale shark back into deeper waters.

“However, despite their best efforts, the whale shark repeatedly returned to the shallow waters,” the Coast Guard District Southern Tagalog said.

After hours of rescue try, the whale shark was reported lifeless near the shoreline at 5 a.m.

Its remains were turned over to the Balayan municipal fisheries office for proper disposition and in accordance with local regulations.

The PCG said it continues to monitor the welfare of the marine life in the region.

It encouraged the public to report any sightings of stranded or distressed marine animals to ensure swift and proper response actions.

Related Tags

whale shark butanding PCG marine life Batangas

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