Runaway Cow Rescued After Swimming in Masbate Waters
MASBATE – A cow was caught on video swimming nearly two kilometers in the sea off the coast of Cataingan.
The incident reportedly occurred after the animal escaped from a local bullfighting event, known as Juego del Toro, organized by the provincial disaster risk reduction and management offices in the Bicol region. After the escape, rescuers had to use a boat to safely retrieve the animal from the open sea.
Bataan Animal Welfare is now actively searching for the cow. According to reports, it had been kept inside a lightly fenced area at Matayum Lagoon before it suddenly ran off and headed toward the water.
On Tuesday, June 24, the organization shared a Facebook update saying they had found a peaceful farm in Masbate where the cow could live permanently. The farm is owned by a sibling of animal welfare advocate Susan Espinosa.
They also mentioned that they’ve reached out to the local governments of Malinao and Ordoño to request custody of the cow, but are seeking assistance in making direct contact.
If the local government decides to auction the cow, the group is prepared to raise funds to secure its freedom and provide it with a safe, lifelong home.
Meanwhile, cows can actually swim, thanks to their strong muscles and naturally buoyant bodies. They use a simple paddling motion, much like a dog’s, to stay afloat. While not common behavior, cows can swim a few kilometers if they are healthy and calm. In Masbate, the cow swam nearly two kilometers after escaping. Long swims can be dangerous, leading to exhaustion or drowning, especially in rough waters. That’s why rescuers acted quickly. It’s a surprising but real example of how animals can be strong and determined when seeking s
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