This is the shocking moment an enormous crocodile emerged alongside a ferry carrying teachers home.

Rural school volunteer Melanie Suaib and her colleague passed through a mangrove forest on board a boat when the 12ft (4m) reptile appeared.

Footage shows the primary school instructors recording the beautiful countryside view when the beast suddenly breaks through the water's surface.

The croc startled everyone onboard as its length, from the tip of the nose to its tail, was almost the size of the passing vessel.

Teacher Melanie was terrified with her friend, but the local boatman told them to be calm and stay inside the watercraft in Palawan, the Philippines, on April 16.

After only a moment, a smaller crocodile appeared nearby.

Melanie said: 'No, no, no, please. Let's move faster, come on.'

The educators tried to remain cheerful despite the unexpected animal sighting.

When they reached a safer spot, they stopped to rest.

Melanie said: 'Where are they? Are they still swimming? I am so nervous. They always surprise me.'

The Rabor Elementary School teacher added: 'The crocodiles showed up on our way from our graduation rites.'

Palawan is home to crocodile species that inhabit its rivers, mangroves, and coastal areas. The most commonly found is the saltwater crocodile, known for its immense size.

They are aggressive and have been responsible for hundreds of attacks on humans in recent years.