As the moonlight hits the water in Numancia, the shoreline suddenly flickers with a restless, pulsing energy. It’s not the tide pulling back, it’s actually dozens of tiny sea turtles all waking up at once. Two hundred two (202) Olive ridley sea turtle hatchlings—locally known as pawikan—began their high-stakes sprint into the vast ocean. This 202 Olive ridleys were recorded between February 19 and 23, 2026, marking a winning milestone for marine conservation in the province.

Tiny flippers winning the race. (2026, March 10). Panay News, p. 3.