A total of 93 Olive Ridley sea turtle (pawikan) hatchlings were successfully released into the sea during a simultaneous coastal activity held in Sitio Mindoro, Barangay San Sebastian, San Vicente, Ilocos Sur on 23 January.

The release was conducted as part of the municipality’s continuing efforts to protect and conserve marine resources and wildlife, particularly endangered sea turtle species.

Leading the activity were Municipal Agriculture Office representative Mao Genesis Foronda, DENR Office (DENRO) representative Joel Reclusado, and Bantay Dagat (Deputized Fish Wardens) Rogelio Rualizo and Jaime Retreta, alongside personnel of the San Vicente Municipal Police Station (MPS) headed by PCPT Pedro R. Halover, ACOP. Other agencies and sectors also joined to ensure the safe and orderly return of the hatchlings to their natural habitat.

Officials said the activity also aimed to strengthen public awareness on the importance of protecting pawikan and safeguarding their nesting sites from illegal collection and habitat destruction.

The local government reiterated its call for community participation in environmental conservation initiatives, emphasizing that joint action between authorities and residents plays a vital role in preserving natural resources for future generations.