Two Badjao fishermen turned over to authorities a slightly injured green sea turtle which accidentally got stuck in their net while they were fishing in waters between Dauis and Baclayon on Friday morning.
The fishermen, Arabi Tapsalani and Banjing Dumay, brought the sea turtle, measuring about 40 centimeters wide and 44 cm long, straight to the office of the 703rd Maritime Police Station at K of C Drive in Tagbilaran City at 8:30 a.m., said Executive Mst. Sgt. Noel Avenido.
According to Avenido, Tagbilaran City fishery staff Robinsita Abarquez and Ladito Lopez treated a small wound on the turtle’s left flipper.
The turtle is set to be released tomorrow in waters off Balicasag Island, Panglao where sea turtles abound.
Governor Arthur Yap will release the turtle during the celebration of the International Coastal Cleanup Day, said Avenido.
“Si governor ang mag-release ani didto para makauban na ni siya kay daghan ma’g pawikan sa Balisag. Mo-kuyog na ni siya didto pohon,” he added.
Meanwhile, Shiela Zafra and Margarito Cafe from the Coastal and Marine Ecosystem Management Project prepared the turtle’s temporary living space where it will also be monitored.
Avenido called on those who encounter injured endangered marine species including turtles to turn these over to the Maritime Police which in turn will alert other concerned agencies.
“E-turnover nila diri sa opisina unya kami nay bahala,” he said. (R. Tutas)