WHERE WE WORK

Bohol Sea

Out of the 27 cetacean species that can be found in the Philippines the Bohol Sea IMMA is home to 19, including some large whales like the sperm whale, Bryde’s whale, Omura’s whale—and of course, the blue whale!

Sperm whales, alongside the baleen whales, have historically been present in this area—and sadly, also hunted until the 1990s. Given how unique and productive these waters are, and their proximity to human coastal activity, it’s all the more important to protect this vital marine mammal habitat. Continue Reading…

Cetacean exploration surveys are conducted mainly on a needs basis. We welcome requests from Local Government Units and other agencies for exploration of areas for occurrence and distribution of cetaceans. We also initiate our own research of specific sites depending on availability of funding. Many of our exploration surveys have been inspired by reports of sightings of uncommon cetacean species.

We have conducted cetacean exploration surveys around Lubang Island in Occidental Mindoro and Sarangani Bay in Southern Mindanao. This was in partnership with conservation NGOs and Local Government Units. Continue Reading…