CARMEN, Agusan del Norte — The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Nasipit is calling on the public, particularly coastal communities, to stay alert and report any sightings or nesting activities of marine turtles following a series of recent incidents in several barangays of Carmen.
The barangays of Vinapor, Gosoon, San Agustin, Cahayagan, and Tagcatong, which form the Carmen Critical Habitat for Marine Turtles, have been identified as important nesting grounds for these endangered marine species. The area was established through DENR Administrative Order 2012-08 to safeguard critical habitats vital for the survival of marine turtles.
In a report submitted to OIC-Regional Executive Director Maritess M. Ocampo of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Regional Office, CENR Officer Nelson B. Caranzo detailed three marine turtle-related incidents recorded within just one month.
On March 12, 2025, CENRO Nasipit received information about unhatched marine turtle eggs found along the beachfront of Barangay Vinapor. The report was relayed by Jimmy Zapieco, caretaker of a private resort owned by Sarah Lumanlan, through Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officer (MENRO) Ma. Cecille Madera. In response, CENRO Nasipit installed protective signage and netting around the site and conducted an information drive with local stakeholders to ensure the eggs’ protection.
Just weeks later, on March 29, a second nesting event was documented only a few meters away from the initial site, further highlighting the ecological significance of the area as a breeding ground for marine turtles.
A third incident occurred on April 8 in Barangay Tagcatong, where a green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) was observed near a beach resort, possibly in search of a nesting site. No eggs were laid, likely due to disturbances in the vicinity. CENRO Nasipit personnel promptly advised the resort management on proper beach lighting practices to avoid disorienting turtles and hatchlings.
“These incidents emphasize the vital role of local communities in conserving marine turtles, which are protected under Republic Act No. 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act,” Caranzo noted.
CENRO Nasipit continues to monitor marine turtle habitats in the area and strongly encourages residents, resort owners, and other coastal stakeholders to promptly report any marine turtle activity to help protect and ensure the survival of these endangered species.