A sperm whale that previously stranded along Poral Beach in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat on March 21 was later declared dead, according to local authorities.
The whale had earlier drawn widespread attention on social media after videos showing the animal stranded along the shoreline circulated online.
The local government unit of Kalamansig confirmed the whale’s death, stating that the animal was first spotted stranded along the beach at about 6 a.m. on March 21.
Authorities said the whale remained alive for several hours after it was discovered. However, the animal died at about 6 p.m. on the same day.
Residents reportedly attempted to push the whale back into deeper waters in an effort to help return it to the sea.
Despite these efforts, reports indicated that several boats later surrounded the stranded whale while some men were seen climbing onto the animal.
Authorities are now tracing five men who were reported to have climbed onto the whale during the incident.
Officials said they are studying whether charges may be filed against the individuals involved due to their actions during the stranding.
Local authorities have reminded the public to avoid interfering with stranded marine animals and to immediately report such incidents to proper authorities.
The whale involved in the incident was identified as a sperm whale, one of the largest species of marine mammals.
Investigations remain ongoing as authorities continue to review videos and reports related to the viral incident.
