Three dead, dozens hospitalized after consuming endangered sea turtle in Philippines
A stew made from an endangered sea turtle has resulted in the deaths of three individuals and the hospitalization of at least 32 others in the seaside town of Datu Blah Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte Province, Philippines.
The victims, members of the indigenous Teduray community, reported severe symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal spasms after consuming the dish.
The sea turtle, cooked as adobo—a traditional Filipino dish stewed in vinegar and soy sauce—was reportedly toxic, potentially due to the turtle’s consumption of contaminated algae. Some animals fed the same turtle meat, including dogs, cats, and chickens, also died, according to local official Irene Dillo.
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Sea turtles are protected under Philippine environmental laws, which prohibit hunting or consumption. However, these creatures are still considered a delicacy in some regions, despite the risks involved. Local councilor Datu Mohamad Sinsuat Jr. has vowed stricter enforcement of the ban on sea turtle hunting to prevent future incidents.
While most of the hospitalized victims have been discharged, the deceased were buried immediately per local customs. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing cultural traditions with wildlife conservation and public safety.
This is not the first such case in the Philippines; in 2013, a similar incident in Eastern Samar Province caused four fatalities. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the toxicity.
