This is the dramatic moment a frantic snorkeller swam away as a whale shark opened its jaws as it floated towards her.

Alexene Airesh Calinawan was diving when the enormous sea creature glided menacingly in her direction in Cebu, the Philippines.

Footage shows the panicked holidaymaker thrashing in the water and splashing away on August 10.

The whale shark can be seen with its mouth wide open while feeding on plankton just metres from the terrified swimmer, who feared it might harm her.

Alexene eventually managed to distance herself before cautiously swimming behind the gentle giant.

She said: 'I just forced myself to join my friends to watch whale sharks closely, but I am horrified by how big they are.'

Whale sharks are known for their gentle nature. Despite their enormous size, they are filter feeders, mainly consuming plankton and small fish.

They are generally curious and non-aggressive toward people, often approaching divers and snorkelers without causing harm.