DECEMBER 31, 2025 — A rare wildlife sighting jolted residents of Barangay Lazareto on the morning of December 31, when fisherfolk stumbled upon 81 pawikan hatchlings emerging from the sand. The Olive Ridley sea turtles, each barely seven centimeters long, were discovered inside a shallow nest near Sitio Silangan.

Officials from the Calapan Fisheries Management Office (FMO) quickly documented the event, confirming that 72 hatchlings were alive and later released into the sea, while nine were found dead. 

“Upon assessment, a total of 81 hatchlings were recorded — 72 alive and nine dead,” said FMO technical officer Marius Panahon. “The surviving turtles were handled following local wildlife protocols to ensure their safe return to the sea.”

City Environment and Natural Resources Officer Wilfredo Landicho emphasized the role of community vigilance in protecting marine life. 

“This is a significant moment that highlights how community vigilance helps conserve our coastal resources,” Landicho said.

The Olive Ridley, recognized for its olive-green, heart-shaped shell, is among the smallest sea turtles and is listed as vulnerable worldwide. Conservationists warn that despite protection efforts, threats persist — from shoreline construction and stray animals to discarded fishing nets and plastic waste.

‘Hanggang sa muli,’ hatchlings!

Pawikans play an important role in maintaining ecological balance. Sea turtles help regulate jellyfish populations and contribute to healthy seagrass beds. 

Interestingly, they return to the same beaches where they were born, decades later, to lay their own eggs — a cycle that underscores the need to preserve nesting grounds.

The discovery serves as a reminder of the fragile link between human activity and marine survival. The sight of hatchlings crawling toward the waves has stirred pride and concern among locals, prompting calls for stricter coastal protection.

The question now is whether communities can sustain this vigilance and ensure that future generations will witness pawikans returning home.

(Image: Philippine Coast Guard | Facebook)