PCG personnel onboard Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel MCS-3009 found and subsequently rescued a floating wounded pawikan while conducting maritime patrol at the municipal waters of Sacol island in Zamboanga City at 6am yesterday, October 3.

While conducting medical examination to the said pawikan, it was found out that it was an “Olive Ridley Turtle”, also known as the Pacific ridley sea turtle, is a medium-sized species of sea turtle found in warm and tropical waters, primarily in the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The said marine specie was among the five turtle species which can be found in the Philippines and are protected under the Wildlife Resources and Conservation Act (RA 9147) and Fishery Code (RA 8550).

Further, a cut wound beneath its abdominal area was seen which was believed to be the cause of its inability to dive into the water. The authorities still cannot determine the cause of the injury.

Coast Guard South Western Mindanao personnel together with CDR MARCO ANTONIO P GINES PCG, Commanding Officer of MCS-3009 and Atty. Ilahan of BFAR jointly turned-over the rescued sea turtle to Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office headed by Mr. Atilano for rehabilitation and care prior sending the turtle back to its natural habitat.