Pawikan Conservation Center in Bataan a must-see every summer

 Guests will even be fortunate to taste releasing to the sea day-old pawikan or hatchlings  like what Vicky Cui and companions from Manila experienced Saturday. Baby sea turtles were hatched the night before and had to be released.

Visitors can enjoy swimming or merely watch the beautiful view from small improvised huts roofed with coconut leaves at the side of the West Philippines Sea. One can go strolling through the wide sandy beach or ride a kayak for rent at P200 an hour.

“Maganda, babalik kami,” said Jessebel Pelayo who was with a big group from Caloocan City asking questions about the hatchery.

Arthur Santos, member of the fishermen’s organization looking after the conservation center, was on hand to answer the queries of guests.

He also guided visitors in the release of the hatchlings.

Santos said that guests can also stay overnight with rooms for 10 persons at P3,500; 2-4 persons at P2,500 and good for 16 persons at P4,500.

The Bataan Toursim Council Foundation, Inc., chaired by Vicky Garcia, mother of Gov. Albert Garcia, has continuously assisted in the caring and promotion of the conservation center.

Festivities through fun run, street dancing, release of hatchlings and other activities are held every November in Nagbalayong.