Thresher sharks were spotted in the Sipaway Island Marine Protected Area (MPA) in San Carlos City on Saturday, August 25.
Their presence was captured in underwater videos by Lasse Gerres, Ronja Trübger, and the team from Whispering Palms/Sipaway Divers.
This is part of an assessment being conducted by Pacific Environment, a global organization working to protect the Pacific Ocean, combat the climate crisis, and advance environmental justice.
The organization was accompanied by the City Environment Management Office-Coastal Resources Management Division, the San Carlos City government reported on its Facebook page on Sunday.
Thresher sharks are known to be a rare sight globally, which is why Malapascua Island in Cebu, has earned its reputation as a premier diving destination.
These sharks (Alopias spp.) are protected under Philippine laws—RA 9147 (Wildlife Act) and RA 8550 (Fisheries Code) as amended by RA 10654.
These laws help prevent overfishing and protect threatened marine species.
The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) said sharks play a key role in keeping our oceans healthy.
They help control fish populations, protect coral reefs and seagrass beds, improve fish genetics, and even support coastal economies through tourism, the San Carlos LGU said.*