A saltwater crocodile was unexpectedly spotted on Diniwid Beach, Boracay Island, on July 25, according to the Malay Municipal Tourism Office of Aklan.
In a Facebook post on Monday, the tourism office clarified that this is the first time a crocodile has been found on the island.
"Experts suggest that the reptile was potentially displaced by the strong monsoon winds associated with Typhoon Carina, which may have pushed it from neighboring islands such as Mindoro, Romblon, or Palawan, where crocodiles are more commonly found," the statement read.
The Malay Municipal Tourism Office promptly coordinated with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR - CENRO) Boracay to safely remove the crocodile from the beach.
The tourism office reassured the public that Boracay remains a safe destination and is maintaining its high standards of safety and environmental stewardship.
"The Municipal Tourism Office would like to reiterate that Boracay is safe and better than ever," the post concluded.
