I saw this photo in the Philippine Department of Tourism's "More Fun in the Philippines" propaganda and was disappointed. Whalesharks have a protective layer of mucus and when you touch it, you destroy that layer, leaving it prone to deadly infections. This photo sends the wrong message that this is acceptable.
As a Pilipina-American and dive master who responsibly swam with them in the Galapagos, was disappointed as we should promote responsible tourism and preserve the beauty of the Philippines and whalesharks for future generations to enjoy.
I've emailed the Department of Tourism to replace this photo with a more responsible photo and to educate dive resorts of responsible interaction with whalesharks/ other sea creatures.
If you are concerned, I encourage you to do the same. If anyone knows the appropriate persons that should receive these concerns, please let us know.
Philippine Department of Tourism - Contact Us
As a Pilipina-American and dive master who responsibly swam with them in the Galapagos, was disappointed as we should promote responsible tourism and preserve the beauty of the Philippines and whalesharks for future generations to enjoy.
I've emailed the Department of Tourism to replace this photo with a more responsible photo and to educate dive resorts of responsible interaction with whalesharks/ other sea creatures.
If you are concerned, I encourage you to do the same. If anyone knows the appropriate persons that should receive these concerns, please let us know.
Philippine Department of Tourism - Contact Us