Residents of Romblon, Romblon discovered a sea turtle shell on Bang-og Islet at Bonbon Beach this Sunday, August 4, revealing a troubling case of poaching.
The Pamamalakaya at Wastong Ingat sa Karagatan Ng Agpanabat ay Nagkakaisa (PAWIKAN) responded to a Facebook post about the shell and visited the site with the Philippine Coast Guard and the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office of Romblon.
Rose Romblon from PAWIKAN reported that the shell had marks from a spear gun and had likely been there for a week. The turtle, identified as a green sea turtle approximately 80 cm in length and 79 cm in width and estimated to be 20-25 years old, was found without its body, suggesting it had been butchered on the islet.
“We will not stop until we find out who did this to the poor sea turtle. If anyone has any information, please contact us,” Romblon urged.
Under the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, catching, killing, destroying nests, or collecting turtle eggs is prohibited. Violators face fines and imprisonment of 6 months to 12 years.
Authorities continue to investigate to apprehend those responsible for this illegal act.
