Additional Coverage:
Sea Turtle Stew Poisoning Kills Three in Philippines
Three individuals have tragically passed away, and at least 32 others were hospitalized in the Philippines after consuming an endangered sea turtle cooked in a stew.
The incident occurred last week in Maguindanao del Norte Province, where indigenous Teduray people experienced severe symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Although hunting and consuming sea turtles is prohibited under Philippine environmental laws, they remain a traditional delicacy in certain communities. However, these creatures can become toxic if they ingest contaminated algae, even if they appear healthy.
Some dogs, cats, and chickens that also consumed the sea turtle also died. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the fatalities.
The sea turtle was prepared as adobo, a popular Filipino dish. While the residents of Datu Blah Sinsuat typically obtain food from the sea, officials expressed regret that alternative seafood options were not utilized.
Most hospitalized individuals have been discharged, while the three who died were buried in accordance with local tradition.
To prevent future incidents, local officials have vowed to enforce the ban on hunting sea turtles in the region. Sea turtle species are endangered, and their hunting is illegal in the Philippines. However, they are still hunted for their perceived medicinal properties.
In 2013, a similar incident occurred in Eastern Samar Province, resulting in 68 illnesses and four deaths after a sea turtle was consumed.