The Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), headed by Mr. Marc Alvin T. Garcia, conducted a one-day Sea Turtle Conservation Training last Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at the People’s Hall, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO). The training was delivered by CURMA, or Coastal Underwater Resource Management Actions, which is based in San Juan, La Union. Also present was a representative from the Embassy of Canada, a partner of CURMA.

In Bauang, there are two (2) nesting areas for sea turtles: one in Barangay Baccuit Sur and another one in Brgy. Pugo. Last January 9, 2024, MENRO Bauang released 64 baby green sea turtles at Brgy. Baccuit Sur, the first release ever conducted in the Municipality. Additionally, last Sept. 26, 2024, MENRO Bauang and CURMA held a training for the students of the Baccuit National High School regarding sea turtle conservation.

CURMA was established in 2010 with the aim to protect and conserve endangered sea turtles and their marine habitat. Sea turtles have a critical role in marine ecosystems. Daily actions like reducing plastic use, volunteering in coastal clean-ups, and eating local plant-based food help protect the said endangered species.