The Ilocos Sur Provincial Government has begun installing markers along the coastal areas of Sta. Catalina following the enactment of Provincial Ordinance Number 0096 aimed at conserving and protecting marine turtles.

The markers serve as indicators of nesting sites for sea turtles, which are often seen during the last quarter of the year.

In coastal areas like Sta. Catalina, sea turtles find refuge to lay their eggs, but the increasing number of beachgoers poses a threat to their nesting sites.

“Kapag aahon sila [sa dagat], ibig sabihin mangingitlog sila sa dalampasigan,” Manolito Rabuya, Barangay Chairman of Tamorong, Sta. Catalina, said.

In Barangay Tamorong, officials estimate that 10 sea turtles nest each year, with resident Reynaldo Rapisura among those who care actively for them.

“Palatandaan namin ay ‘yung bakas ng dinaanan nila sa buhanginan… Masaya kami dahil may nakukuha kaming insentibo sa pangangalaga ng pawikan,” Rapisura said.

During nesting season, many people flock to the sea just to catch a glimpse of the sea turtles.

“Sa ganoong panahon, pumupunta ang marami sa dagat, makakita lang ng pawikan,” Rabuya said.

Studies show that sea turtles return to their nesting sites along with their hatchlings, which explains why coastal barangays play a crucial role in the conservation efforts in Sta. Catalina.