Two fishermen from Puerto Princesa City in Palawan have been chosen as the first recipients of the World Wildlife Fund’s Heroes of the Environment award.

Henry Barlas and Paquito Abia, two fishermen from barangay Maruyogon in Puerto Princesa, were honored for successfully rescuing a trapped dugong early this month. The dugong was named “Enero” and was released.

WWF-Philippines Chairman Vincent S. Pérez, Jr. said the two were awarded plaques during a simple ceremony held at the Puerto Princesa Baywalk on January 18.

“These acts should be made public, for all to emulate. Henry Barlas and Paquito Abia showed everyone what our people are capable of. It is WWF’s privilege to tell the nation – and the world – of their heroism,” he said during the ceremony.

He said subsequent awards will be given by WWF to deserving individuals who do heroic acts to preserve the environment. Abs-CbnNews.com