Maguindanao del Norte – Tragedy struck Barangay Linao in Datu Blah Sinsuat last Monday, November 25, as three individuals died and 31 others were hospitalized after consuming a sea turtle, locally known as pawikan.
Reports from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) revealed that the fatalities included a 68-year-old man, his 48-year-old son, and a 56-year-old man, all members of the Teduray indigenous tribe. Among those hospitalized were six minors and two pregnant women.
The residents reportedly purchased the pawikan for PHP 300 and prepared it in adobo style for their lunch. However, according to MDRRM officer Irene Dillo, the turtle may have been toxic.
“Eater na kasi sila ng sea turtle, pero that time, ‘yun lang nila nakita ang nasabing turtle na red daw yung shell. Hindi na kasi namin maklaro ang shell kasi sinunog nila dahil sa inis,” Dillo explained.
Symptoms among the victims included locked jaw, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe stomach pain. They were immediately rushed to the Lebak District Hospital for urgent medical attention. Alarmingly, even household pets and livestock that consumed the pawikan did not survive.
Wildlife Consumption Risks
Authorities have long warned against eating wildlife, particularly endangered or threatened species like the sea turtle, due to potential health risks. Hawksbill turtles, for instance, can accumulate toxins from their diet, making them dangerous to consume.
“Actually pinagbabawal na sa buong Datu Blah at saka ng barangay captain ang pagkain ng pawikan and other extinct species sa dagat. Pero hindi naman kaya natin i-monitor lahat kasi dati na daw nila itong kinakain eh,” Dillo stated.
This incident highlights the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of consuming wildlife, not only for health but also for environmental conservation.
As the affected families mourn their losses, local officials are intensifying efforts to educate the community about the risks of wildlife consumption and the need to protect endangered species.