Driven by a steadfast commitment to environmental conservation and marine protection, the Rotaract Club of Candelaria Circle continues to champion sustainable development through meaningful community engagement.
In a powerful demonstration of this advocacy, the club—in partnership with the Philippine Coast Guard and the 512th Coast Guard Auxiliary CGADSTL—successfully conducted its Pawikan Release Activity on January 14, 2026. The event took place at 4:00 PM at Forever Tan Ag Beach Resort in Puting Buhangin, San Juan, Batangas, reinforcing the organization’s role as a proactive guardian of our natural ecosystems.
A total of seventy-five (75) Olive Ridley hatchlings were carefully and responsibly released into the sea during the activity. The event served not only as a symbolic demonstration of support for wildlife preservation but also as an educational platform that deepened participants’ understanding of the ecological importance of protecting endangered marine species. Through active collaboration with its partner agencies, the project emphasized the shared responsibility of youth organizations and government institutions in safeguarding marine ecosystems for future generations.
Prior to the ceremonial release, AUX CDR Andres Rasay Luistro Jr., PCGA, facilitated an informative briefing on the life cycle, habitat, and ecological significance of pawikans. He discussed the numerous threats faced by sea turtles, including predation, habitat destruction, marine pollution, and other human-induced activities that significantly affect their survival rates. It was highlighted that only a small fraction of hatchlings reach maturity and eventually return to their place of origin, underscoring the urgent need for sustained conservation initiatives and responsible environmental stewardship.
Following the briefing, participants proceeded with the ceremonial release, observing with respect and appreciation as the hatchlings instinctively made their way toward the open sea. In local tradition, pawikans are believed to glance back at the shore before swimming away, symbolizing gratitude to their birthplace and hope for their eventual return. The experience nurtured a profound sense of environmental awareness and collective responsibility among those in attendance.
The event was attended by representatives of the organization, including Advocacy-Driven President Arwin Michael D. So, Charter President Xela Neameyer, and Health Committee Head Alena Neameyer, whose presence demonstrated the club’s active leadership and dedication to environmental initiatives.
Overall, the Pawikan Release 2026 stands as a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to environmental advocacy, strategic partnerships, and hands-on community service, contributing meaningfully to the broader goal of marine conservation and sustainable environmental action.
