Two Marine Turtles Rescued in Zambales, Highlighting Environmental Concerns

SAN FERNANDO CITY, Pampanga, Philippines — A juvenile Hawksbill turtle and an Olive ridley sea turtle were rescued in San Narciso, Zambales last week, according to the Olongapo City community environment and natural resources office. CENRO-Olongapo chief Edward Sernadilla said coastal residents of Barangay La Paz, wildlife responders and government personnel rescued the 13-centimeter Hawksbill after the turtle washed ashore amid rough sea conditions brought by the southwest monsoon. The turtle’s condition was assessed before it was released back to the sea, Sernadilla said. He added that the wildlife responders later rescued a 50-centimeter Olive ridley after residents found it entangled in discarded fishing net near the local fish landing area. Sernadilla said the turtle sustained deep wounds in its flippers and a chipped carapace. It was brought to the PawiCare conservation site, where it received treatment and rehabilitation, he added. PawiCare personnel and the staff of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) conducted physical and health assessments before fitting the turtle with the identification tag PH 1070A. Ralph Pablo, DENR regional executive director, said the immediate response of residents and wildlife responders helped ensure that the stranded turtles received appropriate care. These rescue efforts highlight the rich marine biodiversity of the Philippines and the environmental challenges it faces, particularly from marine pollution and unsustainable fishing practices. The country, with its extensive coastline and diverse marine ecosystems, grapples with issues like plastic waste and discarded fishing gear, prompting ongoing awareness campaigns and clean-up drives by government agencies and NGOs.