ISABELA CITY, BASILAN — Alarm spread among residents and environmental advocates after a weakened dolphin was spotted lingering near the shoreline of Hami Beach in Barangay Baluno, Isabela City on Monday afternoon, just hours after a dead bull shark was discovered washed up on Sangbay Island in the town of Hadji Muhtamad.
Witnesses said the dolphin, locally known as lumba-lumba, appeared visibly weak and disoriented, remaining close to the shore and failing to swim back into deeper waters since it was first seen. Concerned residents and netizens immediately called on authorities to rescue and assess the animal’s condition, fearing it may be injured, sick, or affected by environmental stress.
“Hindi normal na manatili ang dolphin sa mababaw na bahagi ng dagat. Mukha itong nanghihina at hirap gumalaw,” a resident shared, urging swift action to prevent the animal from dying.
Environmental groups warn that dolphins lingering near shorelines may be suffering from dehydration, illness, injury, or exposure to pollutants and noise disturbance. They stressed the need for immediate intervention by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), local disaster response teams, and wildlife experts to conduct a proper rescue and rehabilitation operation.
Earlier the same day, residents of Sangbay Island in Hadji Muhtamad were startled to find a bull shark washed up dead along the beach. The cause of death has yet to be determined, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of fishing-related injuries, marine pollution, or natural causes. The incident has sparked concern among locals, especially fisherfolk, who rely heavily on the sea for their livelihood.
“These incidents should not be taken lightly. Dolphins and sharks are important indicators of marine ecosystem health. When they strand or die near shore, it could signal deeper environmental problems,” an environmental advocate said.
The twin incidents have renewed calls for stricter protection of marine habitats, stronger monitoring of fishing activities, and thorough investigation into possible pollution, illegal fishing practices, or underwater disturbances in Basilan waters.
Residents are appealing to local government units and concerned agencies to act quickly—not only to save the stranded dolphin, but also to uncover the cause behind the shark’s death and prevent further harm to marine wildlife.
As of this writing, no official rescue operation has been confirmed for the dolphin, and investigations into the bull shark’s death are still pending.
Environmental groups continue to urge the public: do not touch stranded marine animals and immediately report sightings to authorities, as timely action can mean the difference between life and death.