PAWIKAN’ Hatchlings Released in Waters of Zambales
Spearheaded by SM Olongapo, a total of Fifty(50) Olive Ridley Sea Turtle hatchlings were released recently in Purok 5 Brgy. LaPaz, San Narciso Zambales. SM was joined by environmentalists from Katimpuyog Zambales, 18 volunteer fisherfolks known as La Paz rangers chaired by LaRainne A. Sarmiento with the support from Barangay Officials and media representatives.
The program called PawiCare for Pawikan protection and conservation aims to conserve sea turtles succeeding generations. According to Sarmiento, eggs in the past were hunted to be sold in the public market . But now with the presence of volunteers, “poaching” has ended. These volunteer fisherfolks a.k.a. “La Paz Rangers” organized the town-based PawiCare, a pawikan (sea turtle) protection and conservation program that involve a thorough sea turtle watch by the rangers. “ Ang goal ng ating conservation program ay madami ang mapadala na pawikan sa dagat para dumami ang population later,” Sarmiento explained. She thanked SM for showing efforts in saving the endangered marine turtles and for being part of the noble activity.
Based on research, the pawikan appears on the list of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species(CITES) of Wild Fauna and Flora, having become endangered because of poaching, slaughter, blast fishing, illegal trade and pollution.
Through the Pawicare program, it can help conserve and protect the marine species and thereby help maintain the ecological balance in the fishing grounds.
Another batch of pawikan eggs is expected to hatch in the remaining days of November and December.
SM serves not only as the retail industry leader, but also acts as a catalyst towards positive change in our nation, leading by example when it comes to corporate social responsibility through its SM Cares program.(PR-SMOL)
