HADJI MOHAMMAD AJUL, Basilan — The Provincial Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy Office (PENREO)–Basilan of the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Energy (MENRE-BARMM) has strengthened its marine research and conservation capacity through a weeklong Training-Workshop on Research Methods under the Conservation of Pawikan and Dugong Project (CPDP), held from October 20 to 26, 2025, in Langil and Sibago Islands, Basilan Province.
The training formed part of MENRE-BARMM’s Save from Extinction Campaign, spearheaded by the Biodiversity, Ecosystems Research, and Development Services (BERDS) in partnership with the Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines (MWWP) and WWF-Philippines. It aimed to enhance the technical skills of MENRE personnel in biodiversity monitoring, marine research, and data-driven conservation, aligning with the ongoing implementation of the Marine Turtle and Dugong Conservation Action Plans (MTCAP and DCAP).
Participants from the BERDS Regional Office, PENREO and CENRE Basilan, and representatives from the local government of Hadji Mohammad Ajul, including communities from Langil and Sibago Islands, actively took part in both classroom sessions and hands-on field exercises. Their collaboration reflected a shared commitment to protecting Basilan’s coastal and marine ecosystems through community-based conservation.
Rare Green Turtle Nesting and Rescue Documented
A highlight of the training was the real-time documentation of a green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) nesting event on the evening of October 23, on Langil Island. The incident occurred when a resident inadvertently disturbed a nesting turtle. The MENRE team, led by CENRE Officer Mujahid A. Asmawil, immediately responded and safely managed the nesting process.
The turtle, approximately a meter long, laid 38 eggs, 17 of which had minor shell dents. The team reburied the eggs in their original location and installed a protective barrier to safeguard the site. Later that same evening, a second turtle rescue took place when a fisherman voluntarily turned over another green sea turtle accidentally caught in his fishing net. After examination and tagging, the turtle was successfully released back into the sea.
The rare double encounter underscored the ecological significance of Basilan’s coastal habitats and the importance of local community cooperation in wildlife protection. Technical experts from BERDS, led by Chief Joeffry Kamid of the Protected Area Management Division (PAMD), provided on-site guidance, ensuring compliance with ethical wildlife-handling standards.
Field Practicum Boosts Technical Capacity
The training culminated in a marine research practicum on Langil and Sibago Islands, where participants conducted beach profiling, seagrass assessment, and turtle egg handling exercises. Using improvised Emery rods made from locally available materials, they practiced cost-efficient coastal monitoring methods—a reflection of MENRE’s drive for innovation and adaptability in resource-limited areas.
Participants also learned to identify seagrass species, estimate percent cover, and assess habitat conditions, all crucial for understanding marine biodiversity health. Facilitators from MWWP and WWF-Philippines guided the sessions, emphasizing accurate data collection and the importance of integrating scientific methods into everyday conservation work.
Under the supervision of CENRE Officer Asmawil and Chief Kamid, the field activities ran smoothly, ensuring participants’ safety and effective learning. Their leadership not only ensured proper coordination but also strengthened MENRE-BARMM’s unified approach to science-based environmental management.
Partnership and Commitment to a Sustainable Bangsamoro
PENRE Officer Marietta R. Ladjiman lauded the dedication of the participants, noting that capacity-building initiatives like the CPDP workshop are vital for addressing environmental challenges and promoting community stewardship. The Provincial Office also acknowledged the support of Mayor Talib G. Pawaki of Hadji Mohammad Ajul and Barangay Chairwoman Amna Camlian of Langil Island for facilitating the successful conduct of the activity.
MENRE-BARMM likewise expressed gratitude to Deputy Minister Muslima A. Asmawil and BERDS Director Mohammad Lutr. Dimaren for leading the initiative, and to partner organizations MWWP and WWF-Philippines for their continued technical guidance.
Through this comprehensive capacity-building effort and the rare turtle encounters documented in real time, PENREO Basilan reaffirms its commitment to marine wildlife protection, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable coastal resource management—all aligned with MENRE-BARMM’s overarching goal of fostering a resilient and ecologically balanced Bangsamoro environment.