TUPAD workers to become ‘pawikan’ patrollers

Recipients of TUPAD or “Tulong pang Hanapbuhay sa ating Disadvantaged or Displaced workers” will no longer be street sweepers but “Pawikan Patrollers” who will protect the destiny of sea turtles in Morong, Bataan.

Morong Mayor Leila G. Linao Munoz, in coordination with the regional office of Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has arranged for 65 Pawikan Patrollers to be under the TUPAD scheme.

They signed a contract and underwent orientation in safeguarding the existence of sea turtles and to keep them informed of their responsibilities and compensation they ought to receive for their services.

Mayor Munoz said the 65 Patrollers will go on night patrol, rescue pawikans and take care of hatching at the Pawikan Conservation Center.

“Pararamihin nila ang populasyon ng pawikan sa loob ng 37 araw,” the lady Mayor explained. The Municipal Government of Morong in coordination with Bataan Provincial Government has been preparing for the annual holding of Pawikan Festival with appropriate ceremonies and colorful dance contest depicting the plight of sea turtles.