SOUTH UBIAN, Tawi-Tawi – The Provincial Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy Office (PENREO) of Tawi-Tawi facilitated the rescue and turnover of a critically endangered Leatherback Sea Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) that was accidentally caught in a fishing net in South Ubian, Tawi-Tawi. The formal turnover to authorities occurred on March 3, 2025.
The incident took place on March 1, when local fisherman and Barangay Kagawad Nannan Isdawali of Barangay Bohe discovered the sea turtle entangled in his fishing net. Aware of the significance of the find, Isdawali carefully freed the turtle and promptly sought assistance from PENREO officials.
PENREO Tawi-Tawi, represented by Research Aide Mr. Riben Bahulluk Birulla and Turtle Islands Wildlife Sanctuary (TIWS) Warden Rasim Bersinto, responded swiftly to assess the condition of the marine reptile. They were joined by PSSG Rasul H. Abdul and Police Patrolman Zulkaidal A. Sulayman of the Municipal Police, as well as Barangay Chairman Mohammad Deon Bindoy. The formal turnover was conducted in the presence of barangay officials.
Despite the rapid response and immediate care provided, the sea turtle succumbed to its injuries before its scheduled release on March 5, 2025. Upon examination, authorities observed multiple scratches and injuries on its neck, head, and frontal flipper, along with abrasions on its carapace.
Leatherback Sea Turtles, the largest marine reptiles in the world, face severe threats from habitat destruction, illegal fishing, and accidental entanglement in fishing gear. This unfortunate incident underscores the essential role that local communities, law enforcement, and environmental agencies play in the conservation of endangered marine species.
PENREO Tawi-Tawi officials, under the leadership of CENR Officer Abdulmukim J. Maruji and Assistant Protected Area Superintendent (PaSu) Japrin Hadji Amin, coordinated the assessment and response operations. Representing Ecosystem Management Specialist Forester Alhazien T. Abdulsani were Forester Alkadri G. Hji Lukman, Forester Aladztrim P. Mulsahi, and documenters Shareef Khaddafi U. Hairal and Nur-amar J. Maruji.
Authorities continue to urge local fishermen and coastal communities to report similar incidents immediately to ensure the protection and conservation of endangered marine species in the region.
