Residents of a coastal area in Sitio Balabac, Palawan were left in fear after a large saltwater crocodile was spotted near their shore.
The crocodile was initially captured by local fishermen but managed to escape, causing further alarm.
According to a resident named Redzqa, she was doing laundry by the sea when she noticed what she initially thought was a large log floating in the water.
Upon closer inspection, she realized it was actually a massive crocodile.
This sighting shocked the community, as it was the first time a crocodile had been seen in their area, far from the mangroves where they are typically found.
Fishermen in the area banded together to capture the reptile, with plans to surrender it to local authorities in Palawan.
Experts confirmed that the crocodile was a saltwater species likely in search of food, which led it to the populated area.
However, as the fishermen were dragging the crocodile, it suddenly broke free from its restraints and escaped back into the sea, even chasing some of the residents before disappearing into the water.
The incident has left the community worried about the crocodile’s potential return and the risk of future attacks.
Authorities have advised residents, especially seaweed farmers, to stay vigilant and avoid working alone in case the crocodile reappears.