CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela (PIA) -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Mabuwaya Foundation Incorporated (MFI) released 15 juvenile crocodiles at Dunoy Lake in San Mariano, Isabela as part of the observance of World Wildlife Day. 

Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer Orly Cariazo said the release of the juvenile crocodiles in their natural habitat is a manifestation that the endangered reptile species need to be freed as part of biodiversity preservation and ecological balance.

“These reptile creatures need to re-introduce into their natural habitats. We also need to preserve their species,” Cariazo said.

San Mariano Vice Mayor Dean Anthony Domalanta said the local government of San Mariano vowed to monitor the crocodiles in their habitat in coordination with the Mabuwaya Foundation.

Marites Balbas, operations manager of the Mabuwaya Foundation Inc., stressed the significance of releasing crocodiles into their natural habitat, as they play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

Balbas also said the Foundation will continue to produce crocodiles through its facilities believing that they are important to the environment.

To ensure public safety, Balbas also conducted an information and education campaign for the residents in nearby areas.

“We need to educate the people in the communities near the lake so that no one will be hurt. We also need to stress the importance of wildlife conservation to them,” she added. 

Aside from the officials from DENR, LGU San Mariano, and Mabuwaya Foundation, representatives from the Isabela State University, Melbourne Zoo, and National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, as well as barangay officials, the Agta community, and women organizations witnessed the release of crocodiles. (OTB/MGE/PIA Isabela)