SAN MARIANO, Isabela: Some 15 juvenile crocodiles were released into the waters of Dunoy Lake here on Tuesday, March 5, the Mabuwaya Foundation Inc. (MFI) said.

INTO THE WILD Two volunteers prepare to release one of 15 juvenile crocodiles into Dunoy Lake in San Mariano town in Isabela province on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, in a ‘heartwarming display of community engagement’ toward maintaining ecological balance, with Mabuwaya Foundation Inc. at the forefront of the activity. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (Penro) Isabela described the event as "a heartwarming display of community engagement [as] individuals have gathered to bid farewell to 15 juvenile crocodiles giving each reptile a name before their release."

According to Penro, the release was organized by local wildlife authorities aiming to reintroduce the crocodiles into their natural habitat "with the involvement of the community that made a unique and touching element to the proceedings."

Emphasizing the significance of the event, Marites Balbas, MFI operations manager, also underscored the crucial role of these reptiles in maintaining ecological balance.

Also, to educate the community about the importance of wildlife conservation, MFI distributed informative materials.

Vice Mayor Dean Anthony Dumalanta thanked the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for its commitment to celebrating World Wildlife Day in this town.

The vice mayor also pledged to closely monitor the crocodiles in their identified habitat to ensure their safety and well-being.

The release of crocodiles was a collaborative effort of stakeholders including Isabela Penro officer Orly Cariazo, Naguilian community ENR officer Proceso Canapi, other DENR regional representatives, members of the Agta community, Melbourne Zoo, women's organizations, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Isabela State University, local government units and barangay officials.

"It was a collective endeavor symbolizing the community's dedication to preserving biodiversity," the Penro said.