Dugong stranding at Macahulom Reef, Sagay Marine Reserve

Dugong (Dugong dugon) commonly known in Filipino as baboy-dagat (pig of the sea) and the only surviving species from the Family of Dugongidae is one of the indicator species inhabiting the coasts of northern Negros Occidental particularly in Sagay City.

Due to its strategic location bounded by marine channels and migratory paths such as Asuncion Pass, Visayan Sea and Tañon Strait Protected Seascape respectively and of its bountiful pristine habitats strongly protected, it’s no wonder that these species linger in the area.

According to the Updated Checklist and Status of Marine Mammals confirmed within the Philippine Waters by Aragones et al. 2010, this animal is considered very rare and threatened having been listed in the CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) Appendix I.

On July 18, 2022, the second incident of Dugong stranding happened after year 2000 in the same area at Macahulom Reef.

Three Bantay Dagat volunteers, Mr. Dionesio Pahayahay, Mr. Francis Gopio, and Mr. Paolo Hulleza who were on duty at the Macahulom Watchtower saw the dead animal at 9 o’clock in the morning and reported the situation to Office of the Protected Area Superintendent of Sagay Marine Reserve. Right then, the Offices of the Sagay City Veterinary and City Agriculture as well as partner NGAs and institutions were informed and tapped for the planned management of the carcass.

Instructions in the proper handling was cascaded by PASu Mayo Antonio M. Cueva including the crucial on-site documentation of the carcass.

Based on the initial evaluation, there were no injuries nor external lesions found on the animal.

Further external examination was collaboratively performed by PASu Cueva, EMS II Roberto T. Togle, Dr. Baltazar Delorino, Mr. Christoper Fernandez and Ms. Dina David-Lagutin upon its transport to the Old Sagay Feeder Port. It was identified to be an adult female measuring 2.95 meters with estimated weight of 300-350 kilograms in the advanced decomposition state as per Classification of Carcass Condition (Geraci and Lounsbury, 1993).

The carcass was then turned over to NONESCOST for future collection of data and specimens which can provide critical elements of information for research and development of management strategies.* (SCENRO Sagay)