A routine boat ride to Sta. Cruz Island in Zamboanga City took a disturbing turn on Wednesday morning when a lifeless juvenile reef shark was seen drifting in open water with a diaper wrapped around its face.
According to a GMA Regional TV One Mindanao report, The sighting was recorded by diver Harvey Yap, who later posted the footage online. He and his companions were en route to the island when they noticed the shark floating nearby. Strong waves prevented him from retrieving the animal.
Yap, who has spent the past 15 years diving in the area, said it was the first time he had encountered a dead reef shark. He fears the diaper may have caused the young shark’s death.
His concern extends beyond the incident. Yap pointed to increasing marine pollution, including plastic waste and ropes, which he said continue to damage coral reefs — the natural habitat of reef sharks.
