The Philippine Coast Guard has recovered 182 pieces of dried giant clam shells in Barangay Melville, Balabac, on August 20.
The Coast Guard Station South Western Palawan (CGSSWP), along with partner agencies, found the shells along the shoreline near houses, with some partly buried in the sand. The team conducted excavation that lasted almost two hours before completing the operation.
Jonathan B. Montalba, wildlife enforcement officer of the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development Staff (PCSDS), said the shells had been buried for more than 11 years based on their color and texture. “The largest measured 76.2 centimeters, and its estimated value in the market is around ₱500 per kilo,” he explained.
He added that giant clam shells are often used as decorations, furniture, and ornaments. Giant clams are considered important to the marine ecosystem because they provide shelter for fish and help maintain the balance of coral reefs.
The recovered shells were turned over by the Coast Guard to the PCSDS Enforcement Team for temporary custody while awaiting a final decision from the PCSD in an upcoming hearing.
