Moalboal Authorities Searching for Female Tourist Who Touched Turtle in Panagsama Beach
Moalboal LGU is searching for a female tourist who was caught on video touching a protected sea turtle while diving near Panagsama Beach.
A TikTok user named HomeWorkoutBasic shared a video of a lady diver who touched a protected sea turtle in Panagsama Beach. The post quickly circulated on social media platforms, sparked outrage, and prompted authorities to take action.
The Moalboal Municipal Government has appealed to the public for help in identifying the tourist. The LGO also issued a reminder about the consequences of such actions and reminded the public that touching marine turtles is prohibited under local ordinances.
The uploader expressed frustration at the tourist’s disregard for instructions not to touch the turtles. The diver reportedly disrespected the marine life.
“Shout out sa babaeng hindi makaintindi ng simple instructions. Ilang beses na nga sinabihan ng ‘bawal’ hawakan ang mga pawikan. Di lang niya hinawakan, tinulak pa. This happened March 9, 2024 around 4 p.m.,” the uploader said.
Moalboal Mayor Inocentes Cabaron expressed disappointment over the incident, stressing the town’s commitment to protecting its marine resources. He cited the local ordinance that prohibits touching marine life and warned that violators would face a fine of P2,500.
In another post, a content creator failed to enter tourist spot due to controversial entrance fee
The ordinance, passed under former mayor Paz “Lingling” Rozgoni’s leadership, aims to regulate snorkeling and island hopping activities within the municipal waters. It also portrays the town’s efforts to preserve its marine ecosystem and promote responsible tourism.
Meanwhile, marine biologist Mylene Panuncial-Sadagnot explained the behavior of sea turtles in Moalboal. She emphasized that turtles, like other wild animals, are not domesticated pets and should be treated with respect in their natural habitat.
Sadagnot explained that Moalboal serves as a feeding ground for turtles, particularly female turtles, but not for breeding. She cautioned against touching them, as it can agitate the animals and lead to unintended consequences.
She also warned of the potential dangers posed by human interactions with turtles, including the risk of bites or wounds to humans and the vulnerability of turtles to poaching.
The social media users expressed their reactions to the post:
