The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Iriga released 72 Olive Ridley Sea Turtle hatchlings along the shores of Barangay Caorasan, Bula, Camarines Sur on February 6, 2022. The sea turtle hatchlings, which were discovered by some children playing along the shore came from a nesting site at Barangay Caorasan.

 

Upon assessment, the Team accounted a total of 72 empty egg shells without any mortality. The successful hatchlings and concomitant release of hatchlings were attributed to the support and cooperation of the Barangay Council of Caorasan headed by Punong Barangay Noel Berido including the Bantay Dagat, the Barangay Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (BFARMC) and the local residents. They all exerted efforts in securing the nesting area through constant monitoring and patrol in coordination with the personnel of CENRO Iriga.

 

Meanwhile, to rally the involvement of the youth in the protection and care of our marine resources, the youth leaders of the barangay were given the chance to release the hatchlings themselves.

 

Sea turtles are considered endangered species under Department Administrative Order (DAO) 2019-9. Likewise, Republic Act No. 9147 also known as the "Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act" prohibits collecting, hunting and possessing of wildlife and their by-products and derivatives. Violators shall be dealt with accordingly under the law.