Bacnotan strengthens marine conservation, releases 101 turtle hatchlings
SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) — The local government of the municipality of Bacnotan spearheaded an initiative for marine conservation by releasing 101 olive ridley sea turtle hatchlings in Barangay Pandan on Jan. 20.
This initiative, conducted in partnership with the Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions (CURMA), Alpas La Union, and Barangay Pandan officials, underscores the collective responsibility of protecting marine biodiversity and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Bacnotan Mayor Divina Fontanilla highlighted the role of the town’s Pawikan Ordinance in safeguarding endangered sea turtles and their nesting habitats along Bacnotan’s shores.
Ordinance No. 767 s. 2023, known as “Ordinance for the Protection, Conservation, and Management of Marine Turtles in Bacnotan, La Union,” outlines measures to safeguard marine turtles in the town, particularly during their September to March nesting season.
Also, the ordinance includes setting up coastal nurseries, conserving natural resources, and enhancing community involvement through capability-building training for local residents as nature keepers.
“The preservation of our marine life is a shared responsibility. Together, we can ensure that our environment remains clean, sustainable, and conducive to life for future generations,” she said.
Carlos Tamayo, CURMA’s director of operations, lauded the local government’s leadership in conservation.
“This collaboration shows how communities can take an active role in protecting endangered species. With consistent efforts like this, we can help restore the balance in marine ecosystems and inspire others to do the same,” Tamayo said.
Barangay Pandan Captain Wilfredo Nares meanwhile took pride in their community’s role in the initiative.
“Our barangay is honored to be a safe haven for these sea turtles. We hope to continue working with various organizations and the local government to safeguard our natural resources for generations to come,” Nares said.
Toward protecting endangered turtles
Olive ridley sea turtles are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with their populations declining due to various threats.
They play a crucial role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems by helping balance the food chain and controlling jellyfish populations.
However, they face numerous threats, including habitat destruction, poaching, accidental capture in fishing nets, and climate change, which disrupts their nesting sites.
Balanced ecosystem advocacy
This initiative, which aligns with Bacnotan’s vision for a balanced ecosystem, underscores the importance of collaboration among local communities, environmental organizations, and government agencies.
In the past, Bacnotan has actively participated in similar efforts to release sea turtles, demonstrating their commitment to marine conservation.
The local government pledges to sustain efforts that promote marine conservation and raise public awareness about the significance of biodiversity.
The activity also serves as an example for other communities to strengthen their conservation efforts and contribute to the global mission of preserving marine life. (CCMT/KJCR, PIA La Union)
