PANAGSAMA, MOALBOAL - HOME TO SEA TURTLES
Another thing I love Panagsama, Moalboal besides the Sardine Run is its gentle and not-so-shy sea turtles. Yes, Panagsama, Moalboal is home to a few turtles. I'm not sure how many but you get to see them almost everyday, some swimming near the coastline or along the reef. These turtles thrive here because its a Marine Protected Area. Different types of corals, all kinds fishes and marine animals especially these sea turtles have made Panagsama, Moalboal a place that will bring you happiness and peace. That is why its my happy place.
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE - SWIMMING WITH THE TURTLES
Some of the turtles are no longer bothered with humans swimming near them or trying to get photos with them as they just mind their business and feed on jellyfishes or other marine food. I'm one of those humans and I'm forever grateful for these gentle creatures to allow me to get close to them and admire them.
There are those turtles especially those who frequent near the reef that doesn't like human interactions at all. They prefer to be alone and unbothered. These sea turles swim really fast and fortunately with the help of our diving fins, it helps us match their speed (even for just 5 seconds or more! š )
KEY NOTES WHEN TURTLE WATCHING OR SWIMMING ALONGSIDE THEM
Reminders though for those who plan to visit and watch these charming sea creatures is never touch them. Yes, some of them are already used to the presence of humans watching over them or swimming beside them but its still a NO NO to touch them. And I've seen a few of tourists or friends do this and it really makes me angry. I guess I'm kind of protective of them already.
HOW TO SHOW YOUR LOVE FOR THESE CREATURES?
Aside from NO TOUCHING, we can make it a way to grab the trashes we encounter while we snorkel or freedive. A small act but can have a great impact on them. Plastics can look like jellyfishes to turtles and they will be no doubt eat them. What I do is bring a mesh bag with me to store these trashes. And in that way, I hope I can contribute in my own little way to the preservation of these beautiful marine creatures.
Anyways, I'll let you enjoy this video I made (swimming with the turtles) during our recent freediving adventure last month together with @ybanezkim26 and @sabanalchristian. Enjoy!
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