The Coast Guard Just Uncovered P8.1 Million Worth of Fossilized Giant Clams in Palawan
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has unearthed a treasure trove of fossilized giant clams, with an estimated value of P8.1 million, buried under the shores of Barangay Sebaring in Balabac, Palawan.
The discovery, made on February 14 by the personnel of Coast Guard Station Southwestern Palawan (CGSSWP) under the leadership of Commander Ens. Gabriel Infante, has cast a new light on the area's biodiversity and the lurking threats of illegal wildlife trafficking.
These 336 giant clams, locally known as “taklobo” or “manlet,” initially caught the attention of coast guard members when waves revealed some of their shells. Prompted by a hunch that more could be concealed beneath the sands, a thorough excavation ensued, revealing the full extent of the hidden cache. However, the source of this clandestine deposit remains a mystery, as local fishermen, well-versed in coastal happenings, expressed surprise at the discovery.
PCG assisted local authorities in recovering 336 pieces of fossilized giant clam shells.
ALSO READ:
See Photos of the Stunning Underwater Marvels of Palawan's Tubbataha Reef
Defending Paradise: Heroes Talk About their Battle to Save Palawan
Palawan and the Phenomenon of the Sail
Upon retrieval, the giant clams were handed over to the local authorities in Brgy. Sebaring for safekeeping and appropriate action. Republic Act No. 10654, or the Philippine Fisheries Code, prohibits the harvesting, selling, buying, and transporting of these clams or bivalve mollusks. Those found guilty under this law could be fined up to P3 million and imprisoned for eight years.
The PCG called the find a “significant milestone in marine life conservation,” while the Department of Agriculture corroborates their endangered status, amplifying concern over their preservation.
The Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC) environmental organization earlier raised the issue of giant clam shell poaching as an issue of serious concern. WJC said the shells are being illegally traded as substitutes for ivory.
Republic Act No. 10654, or the Philippine Fisheries Code, prohibits the harvesting, selling, buying, and transporting of these clams or bivalve mollusks.
There is also the issue of the illegal consumption of these giant clams, highlighted by a 2023 "mukbang" viral video featuring these protected species. This prompted the Bureau of Fisheries and Animal Resources (BFAR) to issue public warnings and investigate the incident.
With over 14 recorded seizures of illegally obtained giant clam shells in the Philippines since 2016, the largest of which was in October 2019 involving the confiscation of 120,000 metric tons of shells valued at $39 million, the battle against their exploitation is both ongoing and urgent.
Giant clams hold significant ecological, economic, and cultural importance. First, they contribute to the health and stability of coral reef ecosystems. Through their symbiotic relationship with photosynthetic algae, giant clams help in the production of oxygen and the removal of waste products, which benefit coral growth and the overall reef environment.
They also provide habitat for a variety of marine life. Their shells serve as anchoring spots for algae, sea grasses, and other organisms, while their presence attracts a diversity of fish and invertebrates.
By filtering water for nutrients and particles, giant clams help maintain clear water conditions that are crucial for the penetration of sunlight necessary for coral photosynthesis.
In many places around the world, including the Philippines, giant clams are an attraction for snorkelers and divers, contributing to ecotourism and supporting local economies.
