40 sea turtles released in Quezon

Some 40 endangered baby green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), more known locally as "pawikan", were released off the shore of Barangay Guis-Guis San Roque in Sariaya, Quezon recently.

In an effort to continue biodiversity conservation, Tanggol Kalikasan started the project, "Reducing Threats and Improving Sustainable Management of Biodiversity in Tayabas and Pagbilao Bay" to closely monitor the sea turtle reproduction.

According to experts, newly-hatched green sea turtles should be immediately released in the sea, in order for them to learn how to survive in the wild.

"Turtles should be released within seventy-two hours (72 hours) after hatching so that they can look for food and increase their survival in the wild," said Juliet Borlon-Aparicio of TK Southern Luzon Area Director.

Meanwhile, Sariaya Mayor Marcelo Gayeta vowed to continue his support in biodiversity conservation efforts.

Tanggol Kalisakan have also released around 179 pawikans in Tayabas Bay early January. — Marlly Rome C. Bondoc/TJD, GMA News