Whale shark (butanding) watching in the Philippines has been gaining steady popularity through the years with global scientific groups and tourists. An endangered species, butanding sightings are relatively rare because of their dwindling population and they only travel close to the coast during their feeding migration months of January to May. These filter feeders are non-aggressive and people can get near enough to touch these magnificent animals.

Backpack eco tours. (2010, April 23). Manila Bulletin, p. 6.