We may not be in the Philippines but the fight continues……….. this article was published in the Seattle post recently
MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Philippine customs officials say they have seized more than 100 endangered green sea turtles intended to be smuggled to other countries.
Deputy customs commissioner Horacio Suansing says the dead turtles were found along with rare black coral in two containers shipped from southern Cotabato city. The contraband, valued at half a million dollars, was seized Wednesday following a tip.
Green turtles grow as long as 5 feet (150 centimeters) and weigh as much as 290 pounds (130 kilograms). They are endangered because of overharvesting of both eggs and adults.
Suansing says the illegal trade is fueled by demand from collectors and the curio trade. He says the shipper will face charges of violating laws forbidding collection and sale of sea turtles and corals.
As they should be … alive!
OK so they now have 100 DEAD turtles, the shipper will face charges great! The question is, what is to stop the people or person that caught those Turtles going out and catching another 100 to meet the same fate?
The only way “we” that is people that care and respect these amazing creatures are going to stop this. Is to persuade other people who currently do not respect and care for these creatures, to think twice before purchasing one as a curio or for Turtle soup.
What can you do? Spread this one to everyone you know, with the message …….. Speak up! If you see Turtle products, in a store, a restaurant, or a friend’s home. Speak up! Tell them how you feel & tell them that you will boycott the store or restaurant until they stop selling these items.
Together we can make a difference!
Let us stop this once and for all!
