Ang Pahayagan

ZAMBALES– The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has formalized a seven-year partnership with the San Miguel Global Power Foundation, Inc. and the Samahang Mangingisda ng Barangay Bani Association Inc. (SMBBAI) to strengthen marine turtle conservation efforts in Masinloc.

The initiative, called Project BLUE (Balanced and Healthful Life Underwater Ecosystem): A Journey to 1 Million Pawikan Hatchlings, aims to protect and conserve pawikan, or marine turtles, which are listed as threatened species both nationally and globally. Masinloc’s coastal waters serve as an important habitat for these marine turtles.

Project BLUE seeks to raise environmental awareness, promote sustainable conservation practices, and increase community participation while supporting local livelihoods.

Under the agreement, DENR will provide technical and administrative support, oversee hatchery operations, assist in project planning and evaluation, and ensure compliance with environmental laws.

The San Miguel Global Power Foundation will fund hatchery operations, livelihood programs, and other conservation activities as the project’s main sponsor.

“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, SMBBAI will help manage the hatchery, facilitate the release of hatchlings, maintain operational records, and encourage community involvement. The group will also work to identify alternative livelihood options that do not harm marine turtles and their habitats.

DENR Regional Executive Director Engr. Ralph C. Pablo thanked the foundation and the fisherfolk association for their commitment to marine turtle conservation. He said the collaboration demonstrates how public-private partnerships can effectively link biodiversity protection with community development, ensuring that pawikan conservation becomes a lasting legacy for future generations.