More than 10,000 kilos of taklobo shells were confiscated during a wildlife enforcement operation in El Nido, Palawan, the Philippine Council for Sustainable Development of Palawan said.
The operation was conducted on Jan. 14, 2026, following detailed surveillance that led authorities to two suspects. According to the PCSDS, a total of 156 pieces of taklobo shells were recovered after enforcement officers discovered the shells stored inside the suspects’ yard.
The operation was carried out by PCSDS Wildlife Enforcement Officers from Team North, in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine National Police, and officials of Barangay San Fernando in El Nido.
Authorities said the confiscated taklobo shells were turned over to the PCSDS operations center for proper handling and processing, in accordance with existing procedures.
The PCSDS emphasized that the collection, possession and trade of wildlife by-products, including taklobo shells, are strictly prohibited under Republic Act No. 9147, also known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.
The agency reiterated that taklobo, or giant clam, is a protected marine species and that violations of wildlife laws undermine conservation efforts in Palawan, which is known for its rich marine biodiversity.
The PCSDS also urged the public to cooperate in protecting the province’s natural resources. The agency encouraged residents to immediately report any information regarding illegal wildlife collection or related activities to its enforcement teams.
No further details were released regarding the identities of the suspects or the filing of charges as of this writing.
