PCG: Elements of Coast Guard Station (CGS) Zamboanga and 901st Maritime Police have recovered an endangered Hawksbill Turtle from two fishermen at the vicinity waters of Sta. Cruz Island last Saturday, June 07. 

The 18 inch turtle, commonly known as "pawikan" was found onboard the motor pump boat of the two fishermen while the joint team was conducting a seaborne patrol at the area.

Examination conducted by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) revealed that the confiscated pawikan was ten years old and has a market value of 600,000 to 1 million pesos. 

Said pawikan was turned-over to the Wildlife Enforcement Office of CENRO and was later released at vicinity seawaters of Sta Cruz Island, Zamboanga City.

Meanwhile, the joint Coast Guard and Maritime Police team towed the motor pump boat with the two intercepted fishermen onboard towards CGS Zamboanga.

The intercepted motor pump boat was turned-over to Maritime Police IX for proper disposition while the fishermen were turned-over to PNP Maritime Group for filing of appropriate charges.