110 marine turtle hatchlings released

MORONG, Bataan — Some 110 hatchlings of marine turtles were released out into the West Philippine Sea during the Pawikan Festival here Saturday.

Records showed that more than 68,000 one-day old baby turtles have been released since 1999 when the Pawikan Conservation Center opened in Morong.

“The ceremonial release signifies the continuing conservation programs of the local government units and civil society organizations to protect nature and its fauna,” said Jose Marie Garcia of the Philippine Information Agency in Bataan.

Senator Cynthia Villar, guest of honor and speaker, lauded Bataan for its continuing environmental thrusts, leading to the increase in number of the marine turtles or pawikan.

Villar, chair of the Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, joined Bataan Gov. Albert Garcia, provincial tourism council foundation chair Vicky Garcia and some mayors in the release of the hatchlings.

The governor said although he wanted to achieve quality growth for the province and it should, however, be not at the expense of the environment.

Organizers estimated that more than 5,000 people from various sectors trooped to the mountain town for the festival.

Among Saturday’s activities included walk for a cause, Zumba exercise, festival dance competition, trade fair, environmental forum, beach concert and contests on sand sculpture, photography and paddle painting.