Yes, it is a hermaphrodite, but of the "protogynous" kind. It does not have both the male and female sexual organs, but instead, the female becomes a male after two to six years. For years, the "protogynous hermaphrodism" of lapu-lapu has been a problem for aquaculture scientists of the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) in Tigbauan, Iloilo which has ventured in captive breeding of the fish species, prized for their huge size and delectable flesh.

Fernandez, R. A. (1999, March 22). Experts hasten 'sex change' of lapu-lapu. The Philippine Star, p. 14.