Call for study into crocodiles in Agusan marsh

Manila: Residents and government officials have called for immediate studies to locate giant crocodiles in the 96,000-hectare marshland in the southern Philippines, following estimates that some 5,000 of them are thriving there, the government news agency said.

The study should be done immediately to help local government officials plan a strategy to protect the lives of residents near the Agusan marshland at the end of the Agusan River near Agusan del Sur, Mayor Edwin "Cox" Elorde of Bunawan town told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

Lolong, the 20-foot long crocodile that was captured alive in the Agusan marshland, last week, is "not alone", said Elorde.

Residents of villages in Agusan del Sur towns supported Elorde when he called for a through study of the population of crocodiles in the marshland.

Meanwhile, the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) will soon begin the baseline studies at the Agusan marshland, said PWAB Director Mundita Lim.

"We want a comprehensive, scientific and real, genuine data-based approach to solve issues and concerns [about the presence of crocodiles at the Agusan Marsh], whether the solution is to be on short-, medium- or long-term, or whether it will be for the sake of tourism or wildlife sanctuary protection," said Lim.

"The baseline studies we are planning will finally determine what measures the government must adopt for the safety of the people and the crocodiles, whether they can coexist or not," Lim explained.

"What is done with the rich marine life in the Agusan marshland should also give livelihoods to thousands of people living near the marsh area."

Other species of wildlife also need protection in the Agusan marsh area, said Lim.