Sarangani Bay, Philippines – A total of 101 Olive Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) hatchlings, locally known as “pawikan,” were released into the waters of Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape on Monday, March 3, as part of ongoing marine conservation efforts.
The conservation initiative was led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) Glan, in partnership with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) of Glan, local Bantay Dagat volunteers, and witnessed by members of the community and On-the-Job Trainees from Glan Institute of Technology.
The hatchlings emerged from a nesting site along the coastal barangay of Burias on March 2 at approximately 11:00 PM. The Barangay Bantay Dagat promptly reported their emergence, allowing environmental authorities to respond swiftly and ensure the safe release of the pawikan into their natural habitat.
DENR-CENRO Glan emphasized the importance of marine turtle conservation, highlighting ecological concepts such as natal homing and imprinting, which influence the survival of pawikan. It is estimated that only one percent of hatchlings reach adulthood due to natural and human-induced threats.
Sea turtles play a crucial role in maintaining marine biodiversity, as they help sustain seagrass beds and coral reefs. Their presence serves as an indicator of the overall health of the marine ecosystem. Conservation efforts like these remain vital in protecting marine turtle populations and preserving the ecological integrity of Sarangani Bay.
The Olive Ridley sea turtle is classified as a threatened species under DENR Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2019-09, which is part of the “Updated National List of Threatened Philippine Fauna and Their Categories.” Additionally, it is protected under Republic Act No. 9147, also known as the “Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.”
Local authorities and conservationists continue to encourage community participation in reporting and safeguarding marine wildlife, ensuring the long-term survival of species like the pawikan in the region’s coastal waters.
