Bohol sets stricter rules on whale shark tourism

GENTLE MARINE GIANTS Whale shark watching has become a growing tourism draw in the Bohol towns of Loay and Alburquerque, prompting environmentalists to push for stronger measuresto safeguard these gentle marine giants and ensure their protection amid increasing visitor activity. —PHOTO COURTESY OF IWON LILA WHALE SHARK WATCHING

TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL, Philippines — The provincial government of Bohol has imposed stricter regulations on marine wildlife tourism following the signing of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Provincial Ordinance No. 2026-004, or the “Enhanced Sustainable Marine Wildlife Interaction Ordinance.”

Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado on Monday signed the IRR which provides clear guidelines for tour operators engaged in whale shark, or “tuki,” interaction activities.

Whale shark watching has become a growing tourism draw in the province, especially in the towns of Loay and Alburquerque, prompting environmentalists to push for stronger measures to safeguard these gentle marine giants and ensure their protection amid increasing visitor activity.

“This IRR will serve as the foundation for tour operators who wish to conduct whale shark interaction activities in our province. We are reminding everyone to strictly comply so we can preserve and protect our marine wildlife,” Aumentado said.

The new ordinance lays down key safeguards, including a strict no-feeding policy and a “no approach, no interaction” rule requiring tourists to maintain a minimum distance of 3 meters (9.84 feet) from a whale shark’s body and 4 meters (13.12 feet) from its tail.

READ: No more whale shark feeding in Bohol

The ordinance also introduces a zoning system, designating areas for interaction, waiting, and strictly no-contact zones.

Balance

To prevent overcrowding, authorities will enforce carrying capacity limits on tourists and boats, while banning flash photography and the use of underwater drones to minimize stress on marine species.

Tour operators must secure a certificate of compliance from the governor’s office and meet requirements, such as accreditation from the Department of Tourism, vessel registration with the Maritime Industry Authority, deployment of trained marine wildlife guides, and the use of an online booking system.

Violators face penalties including a P5,000 fine per offense, imprisonment of up to six months, and possible cancellation of permits.

Environmental group Balyena.org welcomed the development, describing it as a significant milestone for conservation efforts.

“This marks an important step in strengthening the protection of our marine wildlife and ensuring the long-term health of our ocean ecosystems,” the group said in a statement on Tuesday.

It added that the policy reflects a science-based and collaborative approach. “We were part of the process—reviewing the ordinance, engaging stakeholders, and helping shape the implementing rules to ensure that animal welfare and conservation remain at the center,” Balyena.org said.

Provincial officials emphasized that the measure aims to strike a balance between tourism and conservation.