ata-manobo

Agusan Wildlife Sanctuary courses through five municipalities — Rosario, San Francisco, Talacogon, Bunawan, La Paz, and Loreto.  Bunawan being the most famous one as it was where Lolong was captured. To those who have no idea who Lolong was, Lolong was the world’s longest crocodile in captivity. He was a 20ft 3in Indo-Pacific saltwater croc and he weighed around 1,075 kg. He was found dead in his cage last February 10, 2013.  

We asked the Panlabuhan locals about what they think of Lolong. “Gamay man siya”.  He’s small,  they said.  Nakadakop mig mas dako pa niya, kaduhaon.  Abi namo namatay kay nasab-it sa pukot.  Buhi diay.  “We caught one that is twice his size. He got himself entangled in one of the nets.  We initially thought that he was dead only to find out he was not” our boat men explained.  When asked where  the crocodile is now.  Gibuy-an nano. “We let him go” they shrugged.    As it should be, our group silently agreed.

Yes, in case you are wondering, the marshland is home to many crocodiles. Continue reading →