LAOAG CITY: A pilot whale, found beached on the shores of Paoay in Ilocos Norte, has died despite efforts by local authorities and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources to save it. The 12-foot female mammal, discovered by villagers, was initially placed in a makeshift rehabilitation facility before being released back to the sea.
According to Philippines News Agency, a senior aquaculturist, the whale was found in a weakened state upon its second stranding, leading to a concerted effort to provide supportive care. Arthur Valente, a focal person for the Philippine Marine Mammal Stranding Network in Ilocos Norte, revealed that the whale might have recently given birth, complicating its chances of survival. A necropsy confirmed the presence of milk in the mammal's mammary gland, suggesting recent parturition. Valente also discussed the various reasons marine mammals become stranded, including fleeing from fishermen and illness. The Ilocos Region has been identified as a hotspot for dolphin and whale strandings, highlighting the need for increased awareness and reporting of such incidents.