Bohol is preparing to bring back whale shark watching in November, with stricter regulations in place to protect marine wildlife and support tourism-dependent communities.
Whale shark watching in Bohol is expected to resume next month following a suspension that began in February 2025. The activity was halted in the towns of Lila, Alburquerque, and Dauis after authorities found that operators had been feeding whale sharks to attract them to viewing areas.
According to the Bohol provincial government, the planned reopening will follow tighter rules under Provincial Ordinance No. 2026-004, or the Enhanced Sustainable Marine Wildlife Interaction Ordinance. Its implementing rules aim to ensure that wildlife protection remains a priority as the province works to revive the tourism activity.
Under the new guidelines, feeding or baiting whale sharks is prohibited. Visitors must also maintain a minimum distance of three meters from the animals’ bodies and four meters from their tails. Other measures include limits on the number of tourists and boats, designated interaction zones, and stricter requirements for tour operators.
The suspension affected local tourism businesses and workers who relied on whale shark watching for income. With the activity expected to return, local officials and tourism stakeholders hope it will help attract visitors and support livelihoods while promoting responsible wildlife encounters.
However, the November target does not mean all sites can automatically resume operations. Operators must meet the required permits, accreditation, and compliance standards before reopening.
For travelers planning a visit, checking with local tourism offices for confirmed opening dates and authorized operators is recommended.
As Bohol prepares to welcome visitors back, the challenge is to revive a popular tourism attraction while ensuring that whale sharks remain protected in their natural environment.