Records showed that more than 68,000 one-day old baby turtles have been released since 1999 when the Pawikan Conservation Center opened in Morong.
“The ceremonial release signifies the continuing conservation programs of the local government units and civil society organizations to protect nature and its fauna,” Jose Marie Garcia of the Philippine Information Agency in Bataan said.
Senator Cynthia Villar, guest of honor and speaker, lauded Bataan for its uninterrupted environmental thrusts, leading to the increase in number of the marine turtles or pawikan.
Villar, chair of the Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, joined Bataan Gov. Albert Garcia, provincial tourism council foundation chair Vicky Garcia, and some mayors in the release of the hatchlings.
The governor emphasized that although he wanted to achieve quality growth for the province it should, however, be not at the expense of the environment.
Organizers estimated that more than 5,000 people from various sectors trooped to the mountain town for the festival.
Saturday’s activities included walk for a cause, Zumba exercise, festival dance competition, trade fair, environmental forum, beach concert and contests on sand sculpture, photography and paddle painting.
