Three people have died and at least 32 others were hospitalized in the Philippines after consuming an endangered sea turtle prepared in stew. The indigenous Teduray community reported severe symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal spasms, after eating the dish last week in Maguindanao del Norte Province.
Despite it being illegal to hunt or consume sea turtles under Philippine environmental laws, these marine creatures are still regarded as a traditional delicacy in some areas. However, sea turtles can become toxic if they consume contaminated algae, posing serious health risks even when they appear healthy.
Local official Irene Dillo confirmed that pets, including dogs, cats, and chickens fed the same sea turtle, also died, prompting an investigation into the incident. The sea turtle was cooked adobo-style, a popular Filipino dish.
Most hospitalized residents have been discharged, but the deceased were buried quickly according to local customs. Local councillor Datu Mohamad Sinsuat Jr. emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of sea turtle hunting bans to prevent future incidents.
Most sea turtle species are classified as endangered, and hunting them is illegal, though some cultures still pursue them for their flesh and eggs. This incident echoes a similar poisoning case in 2013, where four people died after consuming sea turtle meat in Eastern Samar Province.
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