GNPower Dinginin Ltd. Co. (GNPD) signed on Wednesday a three-year agreement worth P4.3M with the provincial government of Bataan, PG ENRO, and the Sagip Pawikan Foundation to adopt the local pawikan hatchery in Brgy. Poblacion, Morong.

GNPD stated that the deal marked the beginning of their efforts to nurture turtles (pawikan) in the province, which serves as the home to three out of five identified species in the country: olive ridley, hawksbill, and green turtles. Gov. Joet Garcia pointed out, “Ang pagkakaroon ng mga pawikan ay senyales ng magandang estado ng karagatan [in the province of Bataan].” He also said the presence of the species boosts local economy as it has become a tourist attraction in the province. As poaching drastically diminished the turtle population in the past, the governor said implementing turtle conservation projects is now essential. “We would also like to extend our gratitude to GNPower Dinginin, for the partnership, opportunity, technical assistance, resources, and financial support to make the project possible”, Garcia said.

GNPD President and CEO Dennis B. Jordan said, “It is both an honor and a marvel to be on the frontlines of a company that is passionate, committed, and proactive in maintaining and protecting the turtle hatchery areas in the province”.

GNPD AVP for Community Relation Arcel Madrid said, “Now more than ever, we need to strengthen our commitment in protecting the magnificent pawikan to ensure their conservation”. “As the largest coal-fired power plant in the Philippines, we are also eager to participate in environmental programs like this hatchery adoption, so we can not only conserve pawikan but also teach the community of their importance,” he added. Madrid said GNPD is committed to continuously creating sustainable and reliable environmental and social development programs relevant to nurturing and supporting the community.

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