Jellyfish sightings in Marigondon causeway reported by Lapu-Lapu execs

MANDAUE CITY, Cebu — Lapu-Lapu City officials are urging the public to exercise caution when swimming in the waters of Barangay Marigondon, particularly near the Marigondon Causeway, following the sighting of thimble jellyfish in the area on Tuesday, June 2.

Although thimble jellyfish are not considered deadly like box jellyfish, contact with their tentacles can cause painful, red, and itchy skin rashes.

In an advisory issued Tuesday night, the Lapu-Lapu City Public Information Office reported that a swarm of thimble jellyfish was observed in the waters near the Marigondon Causeway on Tuesday afternoon.

READ: Jellyfish season: What to do when stung and how to stay safe at sea

Personnel from the City Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (CFARMC) and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) were immediately dispatched to conduct an on-site assessment and subsequently confirmed the sighting.

CENRO Fish Examiner Orlando Leyson identified the species as thimble jellyfish and warned that contact with them might result in intense skin irritation, including painful red rashes and severe itching that could persist for several days.

READ: BFAR warns beachgoers of jellyfish stings during summer months

Leyson explained that thimble jellyfish commonly swarm during periods of elevated water temperatures and were often carried closer to shore by ocean currents.

In light of the sighting, the city government is urging residents and visitors, particularly beachgoers, to remain vigilant and avoid swimming in areas where jellyfish have been reported.

Last month, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) in Argao, Cebu, also reported sightings of jellyfish along the town’s coastal waters, particularly near Lawis and the municipal pier.