SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) – Over 80 delegates of the Department of Tourism's (DOT) Philippine Experience Program (PEP) witnessed a remarkable sight on March 20, the release of 48 sea turtle hatchlings and a rehabilitated female hawksbill sea turtle back into the ocean.

This environmental event, held in Urbiztondo village, San Juan, La Union, was organized by the Project Coastal Underwater Resource Management Action (CURMA) as part of their ongoing efforts to protect endangered marine species.

The released female hawksbill, estimated to be around 40 years old, was discovered struggling on the surface by CURMA's sea turtle patrollers. 

After receiving medical attention, she was deemed healthy enough to return to the ocean.

The hatchlings, meanwhile, faced a different challenge. 

With a mere one percent survival rate, their journey to the sea is critical. 

CURMA's coastal initiatives aim to ensure these hatchlings reach their ocean home safely.

The event resonated with the PEP delegates, a group of international and local partners.

Thailand's Ambassador to the Philippines, Tull Traisorat, commended CURMA's work, highlighting the importance of collective action for environmental protection.

“We work together as a whole society in protecting the environment and protecting our nature," Traisorat said. 

DOT Assistant Secretary Maria Rica Bueno echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the PEP program aims to promote not just Philippine beauty, but also its commitment to cultural and environmental preservation.

CURMA Coordinator Carlos Tamayo furthered this collaborative spirit by attending the International Sea Turtle Biology and Conservation Symposium held in Pattaya, Thailand on March 24-29, 2024. 

This exchange of knowledge strengthens global efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.

The sea turtle release aligns with La Union's vision of becoming the "Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon" by 2025, a vision that incorporates responsible environmental practices alongside agricultural development. (JCR/AMB/SGR, PIA La Union)