Three people have died and at least 32 others have been hospitalized in the Philippines after consuming a stew made from an endangered sea turtle. The incident occurred in a seaside town in Maguindanao del Norte Province, where dozens of indigenous Teduray people fell ill after eating the dish last week.
Local officials reported that those affected began experiencing symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal spasms shortly after eating the stew, which was made from a sea turtle. The turtle was prepared as adobo, a traditional Filipino dish typically made with meat and vegetables stewed in vinegar and soy sauce.
Irene Dillo, a local official, confirmed to the BBC that several animals, including dogs, cats, and chickens, that were fed the same turtle also died. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the deaths.
Despite being illegal under the Philippines’ environmental protection laws, hunting and consuming sea turtles is still practiced in some communities as a traditional delicacy. However, experts warn that sea turtles can be toxic when consumed, especially if they have ingested contaminated algae, which can make the meat harmful even if the turtle appears healthy.
The community of Datu Blah Sinsuat, where the incident occurred, is known for its rich marine life, including lobsters and fish. “It’s unfortunate because there is so much other seafood in their village,” Dillo said. “Lobsters, fish—there’s no need to hunt sea turtles.”
The majority of those hospitalized have since been discharged, according to local media reports. The three victims who died were buried according to local customs.
In response to the incident, Datu Mohamad Sinsuat Jr, a local councilor, called for stricter enforcement of the ban on hunting sea turtles in the region, promising that such a food poisoning tragedy would not happen again.
Most sea turtle species are classified as endangered, and it is illegal to harm, kill, or collect them in the Philippines. Nevertheless, sea turtles are still hunted in certain areas for their flesh and eggs, which are believed by some to have medicinal properties.
This is not the first incident of food poisoning linked to sea turtles in the Philippines. In 2013, 68 people fell ill, and four died after consuming a sea turtle found near their village in Eastern Samar Province.
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