Stranded dolphin dies in Davao de Oro; 6 dugongs seen in Sarangani, GenSan

A bottlenose dolphin died after it got stranded on the shore in Barangay Cadunan in Mabini, Davao de Oro.

According to a report by GMA Super Radyo Davao, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Davao (DENR-11) said the dolphin, measuring 8.75 feet long, was found alive by residents in Sitio Asinan.

However, it succumbed later to injuries and parasitic infestation.

DENR-11 explained that while stranding incidents can occur naturally, they are often linked to human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and the animal getting entangled in fishing gear.

The agency urged the public to help protect marine ecosystems and report sightings of stranded wildlife immediately or violations affecting marine life.

DENR-11's Protected Area Management Office assured that measures will be undertaken to monitor and safeguard marine wildlife in the area.

Dugongs spotted

Meanwhile, at least six dugongs or sea cows were spotted swimming in the waters off Sarangani Province and General Santos City.

DENR-12 documented the sightings during monitoring activities conducted from April 28 to May 5, 2026.

Based on records, three of the marine mammals were seen in Glan, two in Alabel, and one in General Santos City.

Authorities started monitoring following reports of dugong dying in different parts of Asia, including the death of a pregnant dugong in General Santos City last February 2026.

DENR-12 said the sightings indicate that Sarangani Bay continues to provide a suitable habitat for dugongs despite recent losses.

"The recent sightings offer a positive sign for local marine conservation efforts and reaffirm the ecological importance of Sarangani Bay as a refuge for dugongs," DENR-12 said.

The agency emphasized that protecting seagrass beds, practicing responsible coastal management, and sustaining scientific monitoring are vital to ensuring the survival of dugongs. — with reports from Efren Mamac, GMA Regional TV One Mindanao/ GMA Regional TV News