In a successful wildlife conservation effort, 69 critically endangered Hawksbill sea turtle hatchlings were released into the waters of Nueva Valencia, Guimaras on January 20, 2026.
The release came after the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Guimaras, led by Wildlife Focal Person II Alvin Alex Neodama, responded to an anonymous tip via their Facebook page about newly hatched turtles at a local resort.
Deputized Wildlife Enforcement Officers assisted in the rescue and documentation.
Upon assessment, the team found 69 active hatchlings, 1 weak hatchling, 19 unhatched eggs, and 9 deceased.
The turtles were carefully returned to their natural habitat at Brgy. Dolores, ensuring their survival in the wild.
“Hawksbill sea turtles are vital to our marine ecosystems. They maintain healthy seagrass beds, which serve as habitats for fish, shellfish, and other marine life,” Neodama said.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-6) reminded the public of Republic Act No. 9147, which protects wildlife and penalizes illegal activities, urging residents to report sightings and potential threats.
This initiative highlights community participation, as the hatchlings were first cared for by the resort staff, and underscores Guimaras’ commitment to marine conservation and biodiversity protection.IMT
