A sea cow, locally known as “dugong,” was found dead in the seawaters off Baclayon town, Bohol on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023. (Photo courtesy of Jojo Baritua of Pamilacan Island Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours)
TAGBILARAN CITY — A carcass of a sea cow, locally known as “dugong,” was found dead by a local fisherman in the waters off Baclayon town in Bohol province on Tuesday noon, Jan. 17.
Fisherman Paul Baugbog found the dead marine mammal that measured three meters in length and weighed about 300 kilograms.
It was not known yet if the animal was a male or female dugong.
The municipal government of Baclayon was informed that Baugbog found the carcass at Baliaut. The carcass was towed to the shore of Baluarte where it was buried by the municipal government headed by Baclayon Mayor Alvin Uy.
The mammal’s cause of death was not known yet.
Jojo Baritua, proprietor of Pamilacan Island Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours, said it was a sad day for Bohol’s biodiversity.
“The presence of dugong (serina) in Baclayon strengthened the town’s title as the Marine Mammals hot-spot in the Philippines,” he said.
The National Geographic said “dugongs are related to manatees and are similar in appearance and behavior— though the dugong’s tail is fluked like a whale’s.”
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