Photo courtesy: DENR Central Luzon
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) here formalized a seven-year partnership with the San Miguel Global Power (SMGP) Foundation, Inc., and the Samahang Mangingisda ng Barangay Bani Association, Inc. (SMBBAI) to conserve and protect marine turtles (pawikan) in Masinloc, Zambales.
Pawikan, listed as a threatened species both nationally and globally, thrive within the coastal waters of Masinloc. To address the challenges facing these marine turtles, the partners launched Project BLUE (Balanced and Healthful Life Underwater Ecosystem): A Journey to 1 Million Pawikan Hatchlings.
The initiative aims to raise environmental awareness, strengthen community participation, and promote sustainable conservation practices that safeguard biodiversity while supporting local livelihoods.
Under the agreement, DENR will provide technical and administrative assistance, lead in the formulation and evaluation of project activities, supervise hatchery operations, and facilitate permitting requirements in accordance with environmental laws.
SMGP Foundation will serve as the project’s sponsor, providing financial assistance for hatchery operations, livelihood programs, and other conservation interventions.
“We are honored by our active partnership with the DENR. We remain committed to supporting environmental sustainability and we look forward to our transformed and empowered project beneficiaries,” said SMGP Holdings Corp., Assistant Vice President Danilo T. Tolarba.
Meanwhile, the SMBBAI will collaborate in hatchery management, facilitate hatchling releases, maintain records of operations, and encourage community participation in conservation. The fisherfolk association will also help identify alternative livelihoods that are not detrimental to marine turtles and their habitats.
Regional Executive Director Engr. Ralph C. Pablo expressed gratitude to the SMGP Foundation and SMBBAI for their commitment to marine turtle conservation.
“This collaboration stands as a model of public-private partnership, showing that conservation is most effective when shared across sectors. By linking biodiversity protection with community livelihood opportunities, Project BLUE ensures that pawikan conservation is not only a responsibility but also a sustainability legacy for generations to come” Pablo ended. (DENR Central Luzon)