Swimming With Whale Sharks In The Philippines
Sadly, I did participate in the tourist attraction of Swimming with whale sharks in Oslob, Philippines. Upon further reflection and research, I’ve been feeling rather guilty in funding and contributing to this rather unethical excursion and a larger problem.
The experience was incredible, getting to be this up and close to beautiful whale sharks was once in a lifetime.
However, I do wonder if the breaking of their natural migration cycle and forced reliance on humans, is bringing a quicker end to these beautiful creatures lives.
Before the exploitation of these whale sharks, they would only come to Oslob once a year for a few days, before migrating off to their next destination.
Now, these whale sharks are a commodity all year round. Becoming reliant on the local fishermen to feed them. Enabling visitors like myself, to experience swimming in our masses around them whilst they fishermen dangle bait. This tourist attraction majorly affects the Whale Sharks migration habits, further impacting their ability to breed and their future survival.
I felt passionate about Elephant welfare and would be the first to comment on their treatment in South East Asia and tourist animal commodities there. Why didn’t I apply the same mindset to these gentle beauties too?
If I could go back, would I now knowingly understanding how unethical it is. Would I do it again? definitely not.
All I would suggest is to do a little research before handing over your 1000PHP and taking a trip down to Oslob to do so.
Inside the Chaotic World of Whale Shark Tourism
