𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐭:

𝟔 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 — 𝐏𝐂𝐒𝐃𝐒 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐦𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐃𝐮𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐨𝐧

The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff (PCSDS) confirms a report of a dead, stranded dugong discovered by resort staff at Araw Beach in Barangay Carabao, located on the opposite side of Culion town. The sighting was immediately reported to the PCSDS through the Municipal Tourism Office of Culion for proper disposition.

The mammal measures approximately 104 inches in length and is estimated to weigh around 500 kilograms. The carcass also bore notable wounds suspected to have been caused by blast or dynamite fishing, although further verification is needed to determine the exact cause of death.

Following the necessary coordination, barangay officials of Barangay Decabaitot facilitated the proper disposal of the carcass on the island. The activity was led by former Barangay Captain Edmundo Frianeza, with assistance from barangay officials and community members.

PCSDS extends its appreciation to the community, barangay officials, and volunteers for their prompt and responsible response in managing the stranding incident. Dugongs (Dugong dugon) are classified as a Vulnerable marine species, and the PCSD continues to promote enhanced community-based monitoring, strengthened enforcement, and sustained conservation initiatives across Palawan. Under Republic Act 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, a Vulnerable species is defined as wildlife that faces a high risk of extinction in the wild should prevailing threats continue.

For reports involving wildlife sightings, stranding incidents, or environmental concerns, the public is encouraged to coordinate with the PCSDS District Management Office in their area for immediate assistance.

𝐏𝐂𝐒𝐃𝐒 𝐄𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦

Central – 09513208791
South – 09169546919
North – 09125753527
Calamian – 09076605619

Photo credits: Mr. Joven Aquino