Bacolod: Dead Whale Shark Buried at Felisa Landfill

A dead whale shark, locally known as butanding, was recovered from the coast of Bacolod City on Friday, October 30, 2026, and subsequently buried at the city's sanitary landfill in Barangay Felisa to avert a public health hazard, according to the Bacolod City Agriculture Office and city officials.

The Bacolod City Agriculture Office estimated the carcass at approximately seven meters in length and three to four tons in weight, as reported by Tribune, Philstar, Brigada News, and the Daily Guardian.

Multi-Agency Operation Required Heavy Equipment

The recovery operation involved the Bacolod City Government, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), the Philippine Coast Guard, Bantay Dagat, local fishermen, and volunteers. Because of the sheer size and weight of the carcass, heavy equipment was deployed to lift and transport it from the shoreline.

The carcass was transported to the Barangay Felisa sanitary landfill, where it was buried.

Mayor Gasataya Cites Public Health Grounds for Immediate Burial

Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya said the city government moved swiftly to coordinate the burial in order to prevent a possible public health hazard.

City officials also extended their thanks to all the agencies and personnel who participated in the recovery and disposal operation.

Cause of Death Undetermined

As of reporting, the cause of the whale shark's death has not been determined.

Whale Sharks Protected Under Philippine Law

Whale sharks are classified as a protected species under Philippine fisheries regulations. The rules prohibit the capture, killing, sale, and unauthorized possession of whale sharks.

What to Watch

Whether BFAR or the city releases a finding on how the whale shark died; officials have not said what killed it.

Photos: Philippine Coast Guard / contributed