The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in Davao (DENR-Davao) has announced the sighting of a dugong and a green sea turtle in the coastal waters of the Pujada Bay Protected Landscape and Seascape, a legislated protected area in the Davao Region. The discovery was made during a series of conservation activities conducted on May 5.
Details of the Sighting
Divers from the DENR Davao Coastal Resource and Foreshore Management Section, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office-Davao Oriental, and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office-Mati observed the marine species while participating in SCUBAsurero, the Biodiversity Monitoring System, and threat identification initiatives. The dugong was first seen swimming in the bay, and later that day, a green sea turtle was also spotted.
In a Facebook post on May 13, DENR emphasized the significance of the sightings, stating, “Their appearance underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and habitat protection in one of the most beautiful bays in the world.”
Conservation Efforts
SCUBAsurero is an annual coastal cleanup program led by DENR-Davao, where divers remove marine litter such as discarded nets and plastics that pose threats to marine species and ecosystems. In addition to cleanup efforts, the team employs Biodiversity Monitoring System tools to track population trends of key marine species. These activities are part of the department’s interventions for Ocean Month in May, which this year carries the theme “Sustaining Ocean Health, Sailing a Resilient Nation.”
Protected Species
Both the dugong and the green sea turtle are protected under Republic Act No. 9147, also known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. The presence of these species highlights the ecological value of Pujada Bay.
About Pujada Bay Protected Landscape and Seascape
Located in Mati City, the Pujada Bay Protected Landscape and Seascape covers approximately 21,200 hectares of marine protected area. It is renowned for its pristine waters and rich biodiversity. The site was declared a protected area under the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System Act and has been recognized as one of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World. It serves as a vital refuge and migratory route for endangered marine species, including dugongs, whale sharks, marine turtles, and dolphins.
