A huge crocodile sparked panic when it appeared under stilt houses in a coastal town in the Philippines.

Video shows the hulking creature lurking in the water as terrified residents observed it in coastal Bataraza town on Palawan island at around 8:35 pm on November 23. The beast lingered for a few minutes before retreating into the sea.

Onlooker Sky Derrick said: 'We were shocked when we saw the crocodile. It was huge. It's my first time seeing one in person.'

The locals said crocodiles were frequently seen in Bataraza, adding they were worried the predators might pounce on their children playing in the water.

Authorities urged them to call the Department of Environment and Natural Resources animal control group in case the crocodiles wander into their homes.

The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development said Bataraza is among the most crocodile-infested areas on the island.