The Rio Tuba Nickel Mining Corporation (RTNMC) in partnership with Crocodylus Porosus Philippines, Inc. (CPPI) held an awareness campaign recently for the conservation and protection of the saltwater crocodiles that have been sighted in rivers in Bataraza.
Analyn Hasim, the environmental compliance officer of the RTNMC, said the information, education, and communications (IEC) activity was held on March 25 to 26 as part of the celebration of the World Wildlife Day.
It was attended by over 450 students and residents from seven barangays in Bataraza.
“Kino-conduct namin ito kasi naging issue dito ‘yong mga crocodile sightings at attacks. Initiative ito ng CPPI na sinusuportahan ng RTNMC,” she said.
Hasim said the goal was to raise the awareness of the residents of Bataraza regarding the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) so they could help in the conservation and protection of the wildlife species and their habitats.
She pointed out that the RTNMC and CPPI both have the purpose to educate residents, especially the children, on the importance of the saltwater crocodiles in keeping the balance in the ecosystem and what they should do when they sight them to avoid attacks.
“Sa pamamagitan po nito matututo pati ang mga bata kung ano ang gagawin if ever na maka-encounter sila nito para maiwasan ang pag-atake at para na rin madagdagan ‘yong knowledge nila about sa mga buwaya at habitat nito,” she added.
Hasim said the RTNMC and the CPPI will continue to conduct awareness drives to gain the public’ support in the protection of the wildlife.
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