In the Philippines, eating an endangered sea turtle stew resulted in three fatalities and 32 hospitalizations. Last week, Indigenous Teduray residents in the province of Maguindanao del Norte experienced severe symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal spasms due to the endangered sea turtle poisoning.
The meal, prepared as adobo with vinegar and soy sauce, has raised concerns regarding unlawful hunting practices. While environmental laws prohibit hunting or consuming sea turtles in the Philippines, some communities still eat them as traditional delicacies.
The investigation will reveal whether the toxic algae consumed by sea turtles can make them dangerous even if the animals appear healthy. Local official Irene Dillo reported that cats, dogs, and chickens fed the same turtle meat also died.
The victims, residents of Datu Blah Sinsuat, rely on seafood like fish and lobsters, yet the community still hunts sea turtles. Datu Mohamad Sinsuat Jr., a local Councillor, vowed stricter law enforcement and emphasized that authorities would prevent future incidents like this tragic food poisoning.
A similar case occurred in Eastern Samar in 2013, where people died, and 64 became ill after eating sea turtle meat. Although turtle meat is part of some cultural traditions, it poses a risk due to contamination.
Mayor Marshall Sinsuat has instructed neighborhood leaders to comply with existing laws to avoid further casualties. This endangered sea turtle poisoning tragedy highlights the importance of protecting endangered species and raising awareness about health risks tied to traditional practices.
