DENR intensifies marine turtle conservation efforts in Mindanao
A total of 131 endangered olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) hatchlings have been safely released into the wild in separate conservation efforts in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, and Glan, Sarangani Province, as part of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) ongoing marine turtle conservation initiatives in Mindanao.
In Barangay Sta. Maria, Kalamansig, the DENR’s Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) led the release of 52 hatchlings that emerged from a newly established marine turtle hatchery in early June. On June 4, 22 hatchlings were discovered early in the morning and were immediately assessed and released by CENRO’s Conservation and Development Section, with support from students of Mindanao State University–Maguindanao and Cotabato State University.
Later that same day, 30 additional hatchlings emerged and were released into the sea at 4:55 PM, a timing chosen to reduce exposure to predators and improve their survival rate.
Meanwhile, on July 7, another 79 hatchlings were successfully returned to their natural habitat along the coast of Barangay Cablalan, Glan, within the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape (SBPS). The emergence was reported by a Bantay Dagat volunteer, allowing DENR-CENRO Glan to respond promptly and oversee the release.
The conservation activity in Glan was carried out in coordination with Bantay Dagat volunteers, Protected Area rangers, the Sarangani Maritime Police, local beach resort staff, and members of the coastal community.
In both sites, Information, Education and Communication (IEC) campaigns were conducted to emphasize the vital ecological role of sea turtles and the urgency of protecting them. Olive ridley sea turtles help maintain the health of seagrass beds and coral reefs, making them key species in marine ecosystems.
The olive ridley sea turtle is listed as a threatened species under DENR Administrative Order No. 2019-09, and is protected by Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which mandates the preservation of wildlife and their habitats in the Philippines.
The DENR encourages the public to report marine turtle sightings and nest discoveries to local environmental offices to ensure these endangered species continue to thrive in the country’s coastal waters.