In a tragic incident in the Philippines, three individuals have lost their lives, and at least 32 others have been hospitalized following the consumption of an endangered sea turtle prepared in a stew.
Officials reported that dozens of Indigenous Teduray people had experienced symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal spasms, after consuming a dish last week in a seaside town located in Maguindanao del Norte Province.
Despite the Philippines’ environmental protection laws prohibiting the hunting and consumption of sea turtles, these marine creatures continue to be regarded as a traditional delicacy in specific communities.
Sea turtles that ingest contaminated algae, even healthy ones, can pose a toxicity risk when cooked and consumed.
Irene Dillo, a local official, informed that several dogs, cats, and chickens that consumed the same sea turtle also succumbed to illness. She stated that officials are looking into the reasons behind the fatalities.
A sea turtle was prepared as adobo, a well-known Filipino dish featuring meat and vegetables simmered in vinegar and soy sauce.
The coastal town of Datu Blah Sinsuat, renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, sees its residents often relying on the sea for their food supply. Ms. Dillo expressed her disappointment, noting the abundance of seafood in their village, including lobsters and fish.
According to local media reports, the majority of residents who were hospitalized have now been discharged. Meanwhile, the three individuals who lost their lives were buried promptly, adhering to local customs.
Datu Mohamad Sinsuat Jr, a local councilor, emphasized the importance of enforcing the ban on hunting sea turtles in the region. He committed to ensuring that “this food poisoning incident will never happen again.”
In the Philippines, all species of sea turtles are recognized as endangered, making it illegal to collect, harm, or kill these remarkable creatures. In various cultures, sea turtles are hunted for their flesh and eggs, which are thought to possess medicinal qualities.
In 2013, a troubling incident occurred in Eastern Samar Province, Philippines, where 68 individuals reported illness, resulting in four fatalities, after consuming a sea turtle discovered near their village.
