GLAN, SARANGANI PROVINCE — A total of 185 Olive Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) hatchlings were successfully released into the waters of the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS) during a two-day conservation effort held on June 9 and 10, 2025.
The release took place along the shores of Barangay Pangyan in Glan and Barangay Tuyan in Malapatan, following the emergence of hatchlings from three monitored nesting sites. According to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR-CENRO) in Glan, the hatchlings included 95 and 51 from two nesting sites in Pangyan, and 39 from a site in Tuyan.
The emergence of the hatchlings was first reported by a Protected Area Ranger and a Bantay Dagat volunteer, prompting a swift response from DENR personnel. The activity was carried out in close coordination with the Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Offices (MENROs) of Glan and Malapatan.
Support for the release also came from the Sarangani Maritime Police and local coastal communities, reflecting strong multi-sectoral collaboration in the protection and preservation of marine wildlife in the province.
The Olive Ridley sea turtle is classified as a threatened species under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09. It is also protected by Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which ensures measures are in place for the conservation of wildlife and their habitats.
Sarangani Bay, a key biodiversity area and marine protected seascape, continues to be a nesting ground for several species of marine turtles, highlighting the vital role of community-based conservation initiatives in preserving marine ecosystems for future generations.