GLAN, Sarangani Province — In a bid to intensify environmental conservation and promote sustainable resource management, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) Glan carried out two key initiatives on May 21–22, 2025, focusing on marine biodiversity protection and forest resource regulation.
On the afternoon of May 22, a total of 120 critically endangered Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) hatchlings were successfully released into the waters of the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape. The release took place along the coast of Barangay Burias, Glan, and followed the hatchlings’ recorded emergence at around 3:00 PM.
The activity was facilitated by personnel from CENRO Glan, together with Protected Area Rangers, Bantay Dagat volunteers, and enforcement units from the Sarangani Maritime Police and Coast Guard Eastern Sarangani. Community members also participated, underscoring the growing involvement of local residents in marine conservation efforts.
Hawksbill Sea Turtles are classified as Critically Endangered under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09 and are protected by Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act. These marine turtles play a crucial role in maintaining coral reef health by feeding on sponges and other invertebrates. CENRO Glan urged beachgoers and coastal residents to report any sightings or incidents involving marine turtles to help ensure their protection and survival.
Parallel to this marine conservation effort, CENRO Glan also conducted a two-day consultative meeting with lumber dealers and furniture shop owners from the municipalities of Malapatan, Alabel, and Malungon. Held on May 21–22, the activity aimed to strengthen regulatory compliance and promote sustainable wood sourcing practices.
The meeting served as a platform to discuss the legal basis, process flow, and updated documentary requirements for the lumber dealership process. Stakeholders also received assistance with document reviews and clarifications regarding the endorsement and registration process during leveling-off sessions.
Leading the discussions were PENR Officer Shalimar Disomangcop, CENR Officer Joy C. Ologuin, and Supervising Ecosystems Management Specialist For. Alexander Ursua. They encouraged participants to act as advocates in their respective communities by raising awareness about the importance of applying for Private Tree Plantation Registration (PTPR) and ensuring the proper registration of chainsaws.
Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officers (MENROs) from Alabel, Malapatan, and Malungon expressed their support for DENR’s ongoing efforts to uphold forestry regulations and ensure the responsible use of forest resources.
Through these back-to-back activities, CENRO Glan reinforces its dual commitment to protecting biodiversity and promoting responsible natural resource management in Sarangani Province.