The Atom Araullo Specials presents ‘Shark Land’

MANILA, Philippines — Today, award-winning documentarist Atom Araullo gets up close with the “King of the Ocean” in “The Atom Araullo Specials.”

Known as the ocean’s top predator, sharks are the undisputed ruler of the seas. With over 200 species, the Philippines has one of the largest populations of sharks in the world – putting the country fourth in the list of Global Shark Biodiversity in the world, and second in Southeast Asia.

 Some sustain a living and other places rake in a fortune by becoming popular tourist destinations because of these sea creatures. However, various threats beset them.

 This Ocean’s Month, Atom travels to different parts of the country to take a close look at how the shark industry has been shaping and thriving.

In Donsol, Sorsogon where the largest population of butanding or whale sharks was recorded, tourists are allowed to swim at the natural habitat of the whale sharks, the world’s biggest fish.

 In Oslob, Cebu – another popular whale shark interaction site – Atom examines the situation and finds answers on why the Oslob venture has been criticized by various groups as disrupting the living patterns of whale sharks.

 In Monad Shoal and Gato Island in Malapascua in Cebu, Atom also dives underwater in the only place in the world where thresher sharks can be viewed with certainty.

Atom continues the journey in Mercedes, Camarines Norte where sharks trade is still prevalent. As some keep their ability to bring food to the family, they hunt, kill, and sell sharks which they claim are not considered as protected and endangered.

 Is the shark tourism industry a form of conservation or exploitation? How do we find balance on the need of others for sustenance and the need to protect the sharks?

 Join Atom as he embarks on a meaningful journey and tackles the benefits and challenges and presents the present and future of the “King of the Ocean.”

 Catch “Shark Land: The Atom Araullo Specials” this Sunday, 4:30 p.m. on GMA-7.