Print

A Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) with a measurement of 32 centimeters in length and 27 centimeters in width was rescued and turnedover by a resident of Barangay Suchan, Bagamanoc, Catanduanes to the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources (PENRO) Catanduanes headed by PENR Officer Imelda D. Baltazar. The turtle, however, was not tagged because it did not reach the prescribed measurement for tagging. On the other hand, being in good condition, it was consequently released on the same day. Hawksbill Turtles are categorized as critically endangered species under DENR Administrative Order (DAO) No. 2019-09. Likewise, all wildlife in the Philippines are strictly protected under Republic Act 9147 otherwise known as the "Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act". DENR Bicol OIC, Regional Executive Director Atty. Antonio A. Abawag is continuously appealing to the public to report any encounter with wildlife species that may be at risk of illegal captivity or stranding.