Residents in Palawan help capture 14.7-foot crocodile

December 12, 2025 - 5:37 PM
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2nd SOU-MG rescues 14.7-foot crocodile in Bataraza, Palawan on Dec. 4, 2025. (Palawan Maritime Pulis Sou II i via Facebook)

An unexpected wildlife encounter was captured on video in Bataraza, Palawan, as locals watched authorities safely capture a massive crocodile.

On December 5, Palawan Maritime Pulis Sou II uploaded footage showing the 14.7-foot crocodile, which drew the attention of residents in Barangay Rio Tuba. The alert prompted a crowd to gather while the 2nd Special Operations Unit – Maritime Group responded to the scene.

This incident occurred on December 4.

With the assistance of local residents, authorities successfully tied, dragged, and lifted the crocodile onto a vehicle. The team then coordinated with the Palawan Council for Sustainable Developmentto assess the animal before safely turning it over for proper care, in compliance with RA 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001.

“This operation highlights the unit’s commitment to community safety and wildlife conservation. Residents near waterways are reminded to stay vigilant around crocodile habitats,” Palawan Maritime said.

—Newsflare via Reuters Connect; with Rosette Adel