Three people died while 32 others were hospitalized after consuming an endangered sea turtle in the Philippines that was served as a stew. The case happened in Maguindanao del Norte when indigenous Teduray villagers reported severe symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps, shortly after eating the dish.
The sea turtle stew, cooked in adobo flavor with vinegar and soy sauce, was part of the shared meal among villagers. However, experts say that a sea turtle can become poisonous when it eats contaminated algae. Even healthy-looking ones are dangerous to eat, experts said. Local animals including dogs, cats, and chickens that ate the same turtle also died, according to local official Irene Dillo.
Villagers consumer consuming sea turtle stew despite other sea food options
While Philippine laws prohibit the hunting or consumption of sea turtles, this culture is still practiced in some villages where the animals are delicacies. Local councilor Datu Mohamad Sinsuat Jr. has vowed to enforce the ban to prevent further tragedies like this. He said this incident was preventable and that the coastal town has more than enough seafood options: fish and lobsters are available.
It is not the first time such a thing has happened. Four people died and 68 others fell ill in the Eastern Samar Province after consuming sea turtle meat in 2013. According to experts, these cases result from the toxins some turtles carry because of their diet.
Most of those involved in the recent hospitalizations have been discharged. Of the three who died, those were buried according to local ritual procedures. The authorities are keenly investigating the exact source of the poisoning while issuing advice to the residents to avoid eating the sea turtles.
Sea turtles are endangered animals; it is illegal to collect and harm them according to the existing Philippine law. This incident brings out the dangers and perils of ignoring protectionist measures for wildlife.
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