Tubay: The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in the Caraga Region (BFAR-13) has condemned the killing of a pregnant blue shark (Prionace glauca) in Barangay Cabayawa, Tubay, Agusan del Norte. In a statement Thursday, BFAR-13 said it is collaborating with the local government unit (LGU) and other agencies to investigate the incident.

According to Philippines News Agency, a Facebook post on March 18 showed beachgoers pulling the beached shark from shallow waters and battering it with a piece of wood, sparking outrage online. Under the Philippine Fisheries Code (Republic Act 8550, as amended by RA 10654), it is illegal to harm, fish, or trade protected shark species, as well as other marine wildlife like manta rays, dolphins, whales, dugongs, and sea turtles.

‘As an agency committed to the conservation and sustainable management of our fisheries and aquatic resources, we remind the public of the important role sharks play in maintaining the health of our ocean ecosystems,’ BFAR-13 said. Sharks, as apex predators, help regulate marine life by controlling prey populations, ensuring biodiversity, and supporting the productivity of local fisheries.

Initial investigations revealed that the 2.76-meter-long blue shark was mistaken for a large tuna or marlin. According to BFAR-13, fear and misunderstanding led beachgoers to attack the weakened shark, which had a hook in its mouth and injuries on its head and tail. The shark had already begun giving birth, releasing 30 pups, 29 of which were successfully returned to the sea.

The agency urged LGUs, fisherfolk, and coastal communities to respect and protect marine wildlife. ‘The Regional Bureau remains committed to strengthening its efforts through education, law enforcement, and partnerships to prevent similar incidents in the future,’ it added.