The crocodile that was caught at sea in Languyan, Tawi-Tawi has been turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Residents built a balsa that will be used to transport the crocodile to Bongao, Tawi-Tawi for proper custody.

Following this, fishermen in the area have returned to sea.

An official of Barangay Kiniktal in Languyan said some residents have stopped fishing temporarily for fear of the crocodile.

“Yung dito sa isla namin, dito sa Barangay Kiniktal, pangingisda pa rin ang hanapbuhay nila. Naapektuhan, natakot sila. Nahuli man yan, nagbalik na ang pagpanagat,” Barangay Kiniktal Chairman Nuh Isnang said.

Fishermen captured the 18-foot crocodile on January 8, 2025. It was first spotted on January 5.

“Yung naghuli na yan yung tao doon taga Barangay Kiniktal. Tapos nilagyan nila ang bunganga ng pukot tapos ayun dinala na sa Barangay Kiniktal kasi dahil siguro naligaw siya. Dito sa Barangay Kiniktal, ngayon lang kami nakakita ng ganyang kalaki,” a resident said.

Authorities reminded the public not to harm crocodiles and report sightings to authorities.