TAGBILARAN CITY, Philippines — The Bohol Provincial Board has officially approved the “Enhanced Sustainable Marine Wildlife Interaction Ordinance,” a science-based legal framework designed to put ecosystem integrity and animal welfare ahead of commercial tourism interests.
The new ordinance, passed on February 27, 2026, comes a year after Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado suspended whale shark interactions in several towns (Lila, Alburquerque, and Dauis) due to illegal feeding practices and environmental risks. The goal is to move away from “unregulated” tourism and toward a more sustainable, internationally recognized model.
- No Feeding or Harassing: The law strictly prohibits the feeding, chasing, touching, or riding of marine wildlife, including whale sharks, dolphins, manta rays, dugongs, and sea turtles.
- Strict Zones: Interaction areas will now be strictly divided into “no approach,” “no interaction,” and “waiting” zones to prevent animals from being crowded.
- Vessel & Distance Limits: Mandatory caps have been placed on the number of visitors allowed at one time, as well as boat speed and distance from the animals.
- Certifications Required: Operators cannot function without a certificate of compliance from the governor, DOT accreditation, and an environmental compliance certificate.
The provincial government has allocated ₱2 million for the immediate implementation of the law, which will be overseen by a new Task Force Marine Wildlife.
- Fines: ₱5,000 per violation or per day of illegal operation.
- Jail Time: Up to six months in prison.
- Permit Revocation: Operators found in violation risk permanent suspension of their licenses.
“Our marine ecosystems are part of that living story. Our marine wildlife is part of that global responsibility,” said Board Member Lucille Lagunay, the author of the ordinance. The new law ensures that Bohol remains a premier destination for nature lovers while guaranteeing that the very creatures people come to see are protected for generations to come.