Magallanes: The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in the Caraga Region (BFAR-13) reported the rescue of a stranded short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus) on the coastline of Magallanes, Agusan del Norte, over the weekend.
According to Philippines News Agency, residents of coastal Barangay Buhang spotted the stranded marine mammal on the morning of Aug. 9. The villagers promptly alerted the Coast Guard Station, Municipal Agriculture Office, and BFAR-13 to take appropriate action.
The whale, measuring 3.63 meters and weighing 300 kilograms, was found in a weakened state, leaning on its right side and unable to remain upright without assistance, as reported by BFAR-13. The marine mammal had multiple fresh wounds, presumably from collisions with structures in the docking area.
During an examination, responders discovered an older wound near the whale’s blowhole with a remnant of a suspected spear gun tip lodged inside. A veterinarian among the responders carefully removed the foreign object and treated the wound with antiseptic. The whale also received vitamin B-complex to boost its energy.
BFAR-13 stated that due to strong currents in the area, rescuers transported the whale to Barangay Caloc for a safer release. The whale later regained strength, showed normal breathing patterns, and maintained an upright position before being released back into the sea.
The BFAR-13 has urged the public to report similar incidents to authorities immediately to help ensure the safety and survival of stranded marine animals.
