The May 19, 2025 sighting of a dugong swimming alongside its calf in Malapatan, Sarangani has brought “renewed hope and excitement” to marine conservation advocates.

This is because the presence of what they describe as “gentle marine mammals” is an indicator that conservation efforts in the area are working.

In a post on its Facebook page, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Soccsksargen said the presence of the mother and calf confirms that Sarangani Bay “remains a safe and nurturing habitat, supporting not just individual dugongs but their ongoing life cycle.”

“Said sighting is an encouraging indication that these gentle marine mammals are not only surviving but continuing to reproduce within the protected seascape,” it said.

“The presence of a calf is particularly significant, knowing that Dugongs have a slow reproductive rate, with females giving birth only once every few years,” it added.

The agency said dugongs have been sighted at the coastal waters of Sarangani - but alone. The sighting of the mother and calf on May 19 was the first in several months.

“This promising development serves as a reminder of the importance of sustained marine protection initiatives. The Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) of the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS) encourages the public to support ongoing conservation programs and take pride in the role that local communities and stakeholders play in keeping Sarangani Bay a haven for marine biodiversity,” DENR Soccsksargen said.