What should have been a peaceful day in the beautiful waters surrounding Helicopter Island in El Nido, Palawan, ended with a heartbreaking discovery.
A sea turtle — locally known as a “pawikan” — was found lifeless, floating near the shore.
The picturesque island, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, witnessed yet another reminder of how human activity can unintentionally harm the environment.
Boat Accident Leads to Turtle’s Death
According to information shared by environmental advocate Glenn Comprendio, the sea turtle’s death was caused by a tragic accident.
It had been struck by a boat’s propeller, a sadly common hazard for marine life in areas with heavy boat traffic.
While no one set out to harm the animal, the result was still devastating.
A Growing Problem for Marine Life
Incidents like this highlight a bigger issue in coastal tourism spots like El Nido.
With more boats ferrying tourists to and from scenic locations, the risk to marine creatures increases.
Sea turtles, which often surface for air or float near the surface to rest, are particularly vulnerable to propeller injuries.
The Emotional Weight of the Loss
For many locals and conservationists, seeing a majestic creature like a pawikan harmed is deeply upsetting.
These turtles are not only a symbol of marine biodiversity in Palawan, but they are also protected under Philippine law.
Their loss, no matter the cause, is taken seriously by both environmental groups and the community.
A Call for Better Marine Safety Practices
This unfortunate event has reignited conversations about implementing stricter boating guidelines in marine-protected areas.
Some have suggested speed limits for boats near popular snorkeling and turtle feeding zones, while others are calling for better training and awareness for tour operators.
Protecting Paradise One Step at a Time
As tourism continues to thrive in El Nido, locals and officials alike are being urged to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility.
The death of this sea turtle serves as a powerful reminder that even the smallest decisions — like how fast a boat travels — can have lasting consequences on marine life.