A rare and heartening sighting of a solitary dugong (Dugong dugon) in the waters of Barangay Bawing, General Santos City, has reignited calls for stronger conservation measures to protect these gentle marine mammals. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 12 (DENR-12) documented the dugong feeding on seagrass during a seagrass assessment and monitoring activity on February 25. This initiative was conducted in coordination with the Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) of the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS), Coastal Resource and Foreshore Management Section (CRFMS), the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, and the Environmental Conservation and Protection Center.
Captured in an aerial shot, with its trails documented underwater, the sighting comes at an opportune time, aligning with the celebration of World Seagrass Day on March 1. This global event highlights the crucial connection between seagrass ecosystems and marine biodiversity, particularly for species like the dugong, which rely on these habitats for survival.
Dugongs, often called “sea cows,” play an essential role in maintaining the health of seagrass meadows. These marine mammals are classified as vulnerable to extinction due to threats such as habitat destruction, pollution, coastal development, and accidental boat strikes. Despite these challenges, Sarangani Bay remains one of the few places in the Philippines where dugongs are frequently spotted, often in pods of three to four individuals.
Recognizing the ecological significance of dugongs, the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of SBPS passed a resolution in 2018 declaring the dugong as the flagship species of the protected seascape. This designation underscores the commitment to conservation initiatives aimed at safeguarding their population and habitat.
In light of the recent sighting, PAMO-SBPS is urging local communities, fisherfolk, and stakeholders to actively participate in conservation efforts. Maintaining clean and healthy marine environments, reducing human-induced threats, and protecting seagrass beds are crucial steps toward ensuring the survival of these gentle marine mammals.
The presence of dugongs in Sarangani Bay serves as a testament to the effectiveness of ongoing conservation efforts, but continued vigilance and public cooperation are needed to sustain these initiatives. By protecting seagrass ecosystems and advocating for stricter conservation policies, we can secure a future where dugongs thrive in Philippine waters for generations to come.
