The Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) Caraga has condemned the killing of a pregnant blue shark (Prionace glauca) in Barangay Cabayawa, Tubay, Agusan del Norte on Tuesday, March 18. In a statement posted on its official Facebook page on Wednesday, the agency denounced the incident after videos of beachgoers attacking and capturing the shark went viral. DA-BFAR Caraga emphasized the crucial role sharks play in maintaining ocean ecosystems, noting that as apex predators, they regulate marine biodiversity, which supports local fisheries and coastal ecosystems. Initial investigations revealed the 2.76-meter-long and 0.53-meter-wide blue shark was mistaken for a large tuna or marlin. Beachgoers, reportedly driven by fear and misunderstanding, attacked 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, with 29 successfully returned to the sea. However, netizens disputed the claim of mistaken identity, citing the use of "iho" (the Bisaya word for shark) in the video. Facebook user Ca Thy Llames commented on DA-BFAR Caraga’s statement, calling for accountability for those who dragged the shark by its tail and struck it. DA-BFAR Caraga assured the public that further investigations are ongoing and reminded that harming, killing, or trading protected marine wildlife is illegal under the Philippine Fisheries Code. Offenders may face fines up to P5 million or imprisonment of 12 to 20 years. DA-BFAR urged local government units, fisherfolk, and coastal communities to protect marine wildlife, warning that the loss of key species, especially a pregnant female, disrupts ecological balance and negatively impacts marine resources and livelihoods. The blue shark is classified as "Near Threatened" by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. (Ivy Marie Mangadlao / MindaNews)
