Residents of Barangay Tambler gather today along the shoreline, watching responders care for a struggling dugong discovered early this morning.
Community members express concern as Bantay Dagat volunteers coordinate with marine experts to assess the weakened animal carefully nearby waters.
Authorities confirm the rare sea mammal shows visible illness, drawing attention from fisherfolk who depend on coastal resources for livelihood.
Earlier that morning, residents report spotting the dugong drifting weakly near Purok Wal before calling local officials immediately for assistance.
Responders from GenSan MARPSTA and Bantay Dagat units arrive quickly, attempting to monitor breathing and unusual movements closely of animal.
By three o’clock afternoon, witnesses say the dugong suddenly vomits blood, alarming volunteers who stand beside the shoreline during rescue.
Despite efforts to observe and protect the animal, the massive marine mammal eventually dies in shallow coastal waters near Tambler.
Initial measurements show the dugong reaches approximately three meters long and weighs more than eight hundred kilograms according to responders.
Officials transport the remains to the Protected Area Management Board Wildlife Rescue Center in Ladol, Alabel for examination and safekeeping.
Veterinary specialists plan to conduct a necropsy to determine possible disease, injury, or environmental causes behind death of dugong specimen.
Marine conservation workers say findings will guide stronger coastal protection measures and improve response protocols for endangered wildlife in region.
Local leaders encourage residents to report distressed marine animals immediately, strengthening community participation in protecting ocean biodiversity for future generations.
