A mission to find live Irrawaddy dolphins in the area of San Miguel Bay in Bicol led scientists from the University of the Philippines-Diliman College of Science Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology to validate the existence in the area of this critically-endangered species during a recent dolphin survey conducted on 6 to 9 July 2023. The team, led by IESM Professor and Marine Mammal Research and Conservation Laboratory Head Dr. Lemnuel Aragones, sighted two Irrawaddy dolphins — one near Apuao Island and another near Canimog Island, both in the waters of Mercedes, Camarines Norte.

Survey confirms disappearing population of critically-endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in Bicol. (2023, July 17). Daily Tribune, p. F31.