SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – Canadian Ambassador David Hartman visited San Juan, La Union recently to support marine conservation efforts in partnership with the Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions (CURMA).
CURMA, a local organization dedicated to protecting marine biodiversity, particularly sea turtles, is a marine conservation organization based in San Juan, La Union, that focuses on sea turtle protection, habitat restoration, and community engagement.
Through education, advocacy, and conservation initiatives, CURMA empowers local communities to become active stewards of marine ecosystems.
One of its flagship programs, the Sea Turtle Ambassador Program, engages youth and community members in hands-on conservation work.
Participants undergo training in sea turtle conservation, nest monitoring, and marine ecosystem protection, while also leading educational campaigns and beach clean-ups to promote sustainable coastal practices.
Strengthening local marine conservation
During his visit, Ambassador Hartman joined over 250 students at Taboc Elementary School for CURMA’s “Turtle 101” program, an initiative designed to raise awareness about sea turtle conservation and marine ecosystem protection.
In a roundtable discussion with local officials and environmental advocates, strategies to expand community-based education and improve coastal management programs were explored, reinforcing the importance of local and global collaboration in marine conservation.
The Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) continues to prioritize marine biodiversity conservation through various initiatives.
In 2023, it deployed artificial reefs, while in May 2024 and more recently, it led mangrove planting activities to protect marine life and enhance coastal resilience.
Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David reaffirmed the province’s commitment to these efforts.
“Through collaborations like this, we continue to build sustainable conservation programs that protect both our environment and the livelihoods of our coastal communities,” Gov. Ortega-David said.
The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Region 1 also commended La Union’s ongoing conservation programs.
“With stronger enforcement and awareness campaigns, we can ensure the long-term sustainability of our marine resources,” BFAR Region 1 Director Segundina Gaerlan emphasized.
International support for conservation
Ambassador Hartman lauded La Union’s conservation efforts, highlighting the importance of community-driven initiatives.
“It is a tremendous privilege to represent Canadians in supporting La Union’s efforts to protect marine life. The dedication of this community to conservation is truly inspiring, and I am confident these young students will become future guardians of our oceans,” Hartman said.
He announced plans to enhance Canada’s support for marine conservation in La Union through potential funding, training programs, and collaboration with experts on sustainable coastal management.
Aside from marine conservation, Ambassador Hartman also aimed to strengthen economic ties and sustainable development.
He met with local officials and business leaders to explore partnerships in tourism and education, focusing on agriculture, ecotourism, and innovation.
His visit highlighted Canada’s commitment to supporting local communities in growing their economy while protecting the environment.
A symbolic commitment to conservation
The visit concluded with the release of 148 sea turtle hatchlings, symbolizing the shared commitment to conservation.
Carlos Tamayo, CURMA’s program director, expressed gratitude for international support, emphasizing its role in protecting marine life and ensuring long-term conservation efforts.
This partnership underscores the shared commitment of local communities, government agencies, and international allies in protecting La Union’s coastal ecosystems for future generations. (CCMT/AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
